1-Pentanol

1-Pentanol is an organic compound with the formula CH3(CH2)4OH. It is a colorless liquid that is slightly soluble in water, but miscible with most organic solvents. 1-Pentanol is a primary alcohol and has a wide range of uses in the chemical industry, particularly as a solvent and as a precursor to esters.

Structure and properties

1-Pentanol is a straight-chain alcohol, and it is one of the isomers of pentanol. The molecule is composed of a five-carbon chain with a hydroxyl group (-OH) at one end. The presence of the hydroxyl group makes 1-pentanol a polar molecule.

The physical properties of 1-pentanol are strongly influenced by its structure. It has a boiling point of 138 °C and a melting point of -78 °C. The compound is less dense than water, with a density of 0.814 g/cm3.

Production

1-Pentanol can be produced by the hydroformylation of butene, followed by hydrogenation of the resulting aldehyde. This process, known as the oxo process, is a common method for the synthesis of alcohols from alkenes.

Uses

1-Pentanol is used as a solvent in the manufacture of resins and plastics. It is also used as a precursor to esters, which are used in perfumes and flavorings. In addition, 1-pentanol is used in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals and pesticides.

Safety

1-Pentanol is harmful if swallowed or inhaled, and it can cause skin and eye irritation. It is also flammable, and it can form explosive mixtures with air.

See also

• Alcohol (chemistry)
• Hydroformylation
• Oxo process

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