1Indanone

1-Indanone, also known as 1H-inden-1-one, is an organic compound belonging to the class of indanones, which are bicyclic ketones derived from indane. Its chemical structure consists of a five-membered ring fused to a benzene ring, with a carbonyl group (C=O) attached to the first carbon of the five-membered ring. The compound has the molecular formula C9H6O and a molar mass of approximately 130.15 g/mol.

1-Indanone is a colorless to pale yellow crystalline solid with a slight odor. It is soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol, ether, and chloroform but has limited solubility in water. The compound is commonly used as an intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly in the production of pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and dyes. Its reactivity stems from the presence of the carbonyl group, which can participate in various reactions such as nucleophilic addition, condensation, and reduction.

In synthetic chemistry, 1-indanone serves as a precursor for the synthesis of more complex molecules. For example, it can undergo Michael addition reactions to form substituted indanones, which are valuable intermediates in the preparation of biologically active compounds. Additionally, 1-indanone can be converted into indanols through reduction, or into indanediones via oxidation. Its versatility makes it a key building block in the synthesis of natural products and medicinal chemistry.

The compound is typically prepared through the oxidation of indane, often using strong oxidizing agents such as chromic acid or potassium permanganate. It can also be synthesized via the Friedel-Crafts acylation of benzene with succinic anhydride followed by cyclization. Due to its importance in organic synthesis, 1-indanone is commercially available and can be obtained from chemical suppliers.

While 1-indanone itself is not widely recognized for direct biological activity, its derivatives have been explored for potential pharmacological applications, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. Safety data indicates that 1-indanone is generally stable under normal conditions but should be handled with care, as it may pose respiratory or skin irritation risks upon prolonged exposure. Proper laboratory practices, including the use of gloves and ventilation, are recommended when working with the compound.