| Chemical Properties |
Off-white to slightly brownish crystalline solid |
| Definition |
ChEBI: A member of the class of phenols that is o-cresol in which the hydrogen para to the hydroxy group is replaced by a chlorine. |
| General Description |
Dark red flakes with waxy texture. Insoluble in water. |
| Air & Water Reactions |
Insoluble in water. |
| Reactivity Profile |
4-Chloro-2-methylphenol can react vigorously with concentrated sodium hydroxide solutions. Also reacts with other bases, acid chlorides, acid anhydrides, and oxidizing agents. Corrodes steel, brass, copper and copper alloys [NTP, 1992)]. A large quantity left in contact with concentrated sodium hydroxide solution for 3 days reacted violently, attaining red heat and evolving fumes that ignited explosively. The heat of reaction dissipated poorly because of the high viscosity of the mixture [Quart. Safety Summ., 1957, 28, 39]. |
| Fire Hazard |
4-Chloro-2-methylphenol is probably combustible. |
| Purification Methods |
Purify the phenol by crystallisation from pet ether (m 51o) and by zone melting. [Beilstein 6 H 359, 6 I 174, 6 II 332, 6 III 1264, 6 IV 1987.] |
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