[4-(4-hydroxyphenyl)phenyl]-phenylmethanone

**[4-(4-hydroxyphenyl)phenyl]-phenylmethanone** is a chemical compound with the molecular formula C19H14O2. It is also known as **4'-hydroxybenzophenone**.

**Structure and Properties:**

* **Structure:** The molecule consists of three aromatic rings connected by a carbonyl group. One of the aromatic rings has a hydroxyl group (OH) attached to it.
* **Appearance:** It is a white to off-white solid at room temperature.
* **Solubility:** It is soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol and acetone but sparingly soluble in water.

**Importance in Research:**

**1. Photoinitiator for Polymerization:**
* 4'-hydroxybenzophenone is a widely used **photoinitiator** in various polymerization processes, such as **free radical polymerization**.
* It absorbs UV light and generates free radicals, which initiate the polymerization reaction.

**2. UV Absorber:**
* The molecule possesses a strong **UV absorption** property due to its conjugated system.
* It is used as a **UV absorber** in sunscreens, cosmetics, and polymers to protect against harmful UV radiation.

**3. Pharmaceutical Applications:**
* 4'-hydroxybenzophenone has been investigated for its potential **pharmacological activity**, including:
* **Anti-inflammatory:** It exhibits anti-inflammatory properties and may be useful in treating inflammatory conditions.
* **Antioxidant:** It acts as an antioxidant and may help protect cells from oxidative damage.

**4. Organic Synthesis:**
* It is an important **intermediate** in the synthesis of various organic compounds, including pharmaceuticals and other fine chemicals.

**5. Materials Science:**
* 4'-hydroxybenzophenone has applications in **materials science**, such as in the development of **photoresists** for microelectronics fabrication.

**6. Environmental Research:**
* The compound has also been studied in environmental research, as it can be found in **wastewater** and may have potential **environmental effects**.

**Overall, [4-(4-hydroxyphenyl)phenyl]-phenylmethanone (4'-hydroxybenzophenone) is an important compound with diverse applications in various fields, including photochemistry, polymer science, pharmaceutical research, and materials science.**