Toluene

Toluene is an aromatic hydrocarbon with formula C₇H₈, consisting of a methyl group attached to a benzene ring. It is used chiefly as an industrial solvent and chemical feedstock.

Electrophilic aromatic substitution: A reaction class in which an electrophile replaces a hydrogen atom on an aromatic ring. The methyl group directs many ring substitutions toward the ortho and para positions.
Toluene diisocyanate: A reactive aromatic compound used to make polyurethane materials. It is manufactured through intermediates derived from toluene and used in flexible foams.
Benzene: A six-carbon aromatic hydrocarbon with formula C₆H₆. Replacing one ring hydrogen with a methyl group makes toluene less volatile and less toxic, though still hazardous.
Toluene toxicity: The harmful effects of toluene exposure on human health. Inhalation can affect the nervous system, while repeated high exposure can cause lasting harm.
Benzylic oxidation: Oxidation of a carbon atom adjacent to an aromatic ring. Oxidizing toluene’s methyl group produces benzoic acid.
Trinitrotoluene: An explosive compound formed by nitrating toluene three times. Toluene is the aromatic starting material for this widely known explosive.
Ethylbenzene: An aromatic hydrocarbon with an ethyl group attached to a benzene ring. Its larger side chain distinguishes it from toluene and changes its industrial uses.
Volatile organic compounds: Carbon-containing chemicals that readily evaporate into the air under ordinary conditions. Toluene evaporates readily and contributes to emissions from fuels, solvents, and products.
Toluene disproportionation: A reaction that converts two toluene molecules into benzene and xylene. This industrial reaction redistributes methyl groups between aromatic rings.
Paint thinner: A solvent mixture used to dilute oil-based paints and clean painting tools. Toluene’s ability to dissolve many organic coatings has supported its use in thinner formulations.

Linked from 10 pages