1-Bromo-3-methylbenzene, also known as 3-bromotoluene, is an intriguing organic compound with the chemical formula C7H7Br. This pale yellow liquid has a molecular weight of approximately 173.07 g/mol and boasts unique physical properties that make it valuable in various applications.
At room temperature, this compound exhibits a density of about 1.49 g/mL and has a boiling point ranging from 184 to 186 °C. Its refractive index is around n20/D = 1.4875, which indicates how light interacts with its structure—a crucial factor for chemists working on synthesis or analysis involving optical properties.
One fascinating aspect of 1-bromo-3-methylbenzene lies in its reactivity; it can participate in diverse chemical reactions such as nucleophilic substitutions or coupling reactions due to the presence of both bromine and methyl groups on the aromatic ring. These characteristics open doors for synthesizing more complex molecules used in pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals.
However, safety considerations are paramount when handling this substance. The material is classified under hazardous categories (R36/37/38), indicating potential risks like irritation to eyes and respiratory systems upon exposure. Therefore, proper storage—preferably sealed containers kept away from oxidizers—is essential to ensure safety during use.
Interestingly enough, beyond its immediate applications in synthetic chemistry, researchers have found uses for isotopically labeled variants like deuterated forms (e.g., 1-Bromo-3-methylbenzene-d3). Such compounds serve vital roles in tracing studies within biochemical research by providing insights into reaction mechanisms without altering fundamental behaviors significantly.
In summary, while seemingly simple at first glance with just one bromo group attached to a methyl-substituted benzene ring, the depth of utility offered by compounds like 1-bromo-3-methylbenzene showcases the beauty inherent within organic chemistry's intricate web.
