Phenylhydrazine

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Phenylhydrazine is an organic compound with the formula C6H5NHNH2. It consists of a phenyl group (C6H5) attached to a hydrazine functional group (NHNH2). This colorless liquid is an important reagent in the synthesis of various organic compounds, including pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. Due to its potential health hazards, it is handled with care in laboratory and industrial settings.

Properties[edit | edit source]

Phenylhydrazine is a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a boiling point of 243 °C and a melting point of 19.5 °C. It is soluble in water and many organic solvents. Phenylhydrazine is a reducing agent and can form hydrazones and schiff bases when reacted with carbonyl groups, making it valuable in the characterization of sugars and ketones.

Synthesis[edit | edit source]

Phenylhydrazine is synthesized through the reduction of diazonium salts, which are derived from aniline. The process involves the conversion of aniline into a diazonium compound, followed by reduction with sodium sulfite or stannous chloride to yield phenylhydrazine.

Applications[edit | edit source]

Phenylhydrazine is used in the synthesis of various organic compounds. It is notably used in the Fischer indole synthesis, a method for preparing indoles, which are important in the production of fragrances, pharmaceuticals, and agrochemicals. It is also employed in the preparation of hydrazones and schiff bases, which are useful intermediates in organic synthesis and analytical chemistry.

Health Hazards[edit | edit source]

Phenylhydrazine is toxic and poses significant health risks. It can cause hemolytic anemia by damaging red blood cells, and prolonged exposure has been associated with an increased risk of cancer. Safety measures include using phenylhydrazine in well-ventilated areas, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding skin or eye contact.

Regulation and Handling[edit | edit source]

Due to its toxicity, the handling and disposal of phenylhydrazine are subject to strict regulations. It is classified as a hazardous substance under various international guidelines, and its use requires appropriate safety measures to protect workers and the environment.

See Also[edit | edit source]

WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD