1-phenylpropene

Description

## 1-Phenylpropene: Structure, Properties, and Research Significance

**1-Phenylpropene** is an organic compound with the molecular formula C9H10. It is an aromatic hydrocarbon with a phenyl group (C6H5) attached to a propene (C3H6) chain.

**Key Properties:**

* **Appearance:** Colorless liquid
* **Odor:** Aromatic
* **Boiling Point:** 155°C (311°F)
* **Density:** 0.90 g/cm³
* **Solubility:** Insoluble in water, soluble in organic solvents

**Importance in Research:**

1-Phenylpropene is an important research compound for several reasons:

* **Versatile Building Block:** It serves as a versatile starting material for the synthesis of a wide range of organic compounds, including:
* **Pharmaceuticals:** Many pharmaceuticals contain phenylpropene units, making it a valuable precursor for drug development.
* **Polymers:** It can be used as a monomer for the production of polymers with specific properties.
* **Fine Chemicals:** It serves as an intermediate for the synthesis of various fine chemicals, such as fragrances and flavors.
* **Study of Chemical Reactions:** 1-Phenylpropene's reactivity and stability make it a suitable model compound for studying various chemical reactions, including:
* **Electrophilic Aromatic Substitution:** The phenyl ring can undergo electrophilic attack, leading to the formation of various substituted derivatives.
* **Alkylation Reactions:** The double bond in the propene chain can undergo alkylation reactions, expanding the compound's structural diversity.
* **Catalytic Reactions:** 1-Phenylpropene can be used to explore the efficiency and selectivity of various catalysts.
* **Materials Science:** Its unique properties, such as its aromatic nature and unsaturated structure, have led to its exploration for applications in:
* **Polymer Science:** 1-Phenylpropene-based polymers can exhibit enhanced mechanical properties, thermal stability, and optical properties.
* **Organic Electronics:** It can be incorporated into organic electronic devices, like solar cells and transistors, due to its ability to absorb and transport electrons.

**Safety Considerations:**

1-Phenylpropene is a flammable liquid and should be handled with care. It may also be irritating to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system.

**Conclusion:**

1-Phenylpropene is a valuable research compound due to its versatility as a building block, its suitability for studying chemical reactions, and its potential for various applications in materials science. It continues to be a subject of ongoing research, leading to new discoveries and advancements in different fields.

1-phenylpropene: structure in first source [Medical Subject Headings (MeSH), National Library of Medicine, extracted Dec-2023]