C3H8O

C3H8O is the chemical formula for three isomeric forms of propanol: 1-propanol, 2-propanol (commonly known as isopropanol or isopropyl alcohol), and methoxyethane (commonly known as methyl ethyl ether). These compounds are part of the alcohol family and are used in various industrial and household applications.

Isomers

The three isomers of C3H8O are:

• 1-Propanol: Also known as n-propanol, it is a primary alcohol with the chemical structure CH3CH2CH2OH. It is used as a solvent in the pharmaceutical industry and in the manufacture of resins and cellulose esters.
• 2-Propanol: Commonly known as isopropanol or isopropyl alcohol, it is a secondary alcohol with the chemical structure (CH3)2CHOH. It is widely used as a disinfectant, antiseptic, and solvent.
• Methoxyethane: Also known as methyl ethyl ether, it is an ether with the chemical structure CH3OCH2CH3. It is less commonly encountered compared to the other two isomers.

Properties

The properties of these isomers vary slightly due to their different structures:

• 1-Propanol: It is a colorless liquid with a mild, alcoholic odor. It has a boiling point of 97.2°C and is miscible with water.
• 2-Propanol: It is a colorless, flammable liquid with a strong odor. It has a boiling point of 82.6°C and is also miscible with water.
• Methoxyethane: It is a colorless gas with a sweet odor. It has a boiling point of 7.4°C and is slightly soluble in water.

Applications

• 1-Propanol: Used as a solvent in the pharmaceutical industry, in the manufacture of resins and cellulose esters, and as a chemical intermediate.
• 2-Propanol: Used as a disinfectant, antiseptic, solvent, and in the production of acetone.
• Methoxyethane: Used as a solvent and in organic synthesis.

Safety

All three isomers of C3H8O are flammable and should be handled with care. Proper storage and handling procedures should be followed to avoid accidents.

Related Pages

• Alcohol
• Solvent
• Disinfectant
• Antiseptic
• Chemical intermediate
• Organic synthesis