P-dimethylaminobenzaldehyde

P-dimethylaminobenzaldehyde is a chemical compound used primarily in the field of chemistry and biochemistry. It is often used as a reagent in the Ehrlich's reagent test, which is used to identify the presence of indoles and urobilinogen in urine.

Structure and Properties

P-dimethylaminobenzaldehyde, also known as 4-(Dimethylamino)benzaldehyde, has a molecular formula of C9H11NO. It is a light yellow crystalline powder at room temperature. The compound is soluble in alcohol and ether, but insoluble in water.

Uses

The primary use of P-dimethylaminobenzaldehyde is as a reagent in Ehrlich's reagent test. This test is used to identify the presence of indoles and urobilinogen in urine. The compound reacts with these substances to produce a pink or red color, indicating their presence.

In addition to its use in Ehrlich's reagent, P-dimethylaminobenzaldehyde is also used in the manufacture of dyes and other chemical compounds.

Safety

P-dimethylaminobenzaldehyde is a hazardous substance and should be handled with care. It can cause skin and eye irritation, and prolonged exposure can lead to more serious health effects. Always use appropriate safety equipment when handling this compound.

See Also

• Ehrlich's reagent
• Indoles
• Urobilinogen

References

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