1Methylcyclohexene

1-Methylcyclohexene is a cyclic alkene with the chemical formula C7H12. It is a colorless liquid at room temperature. Its structure consists of a six-membered ring, cyclohexane, with a double bond located between the first and second carbon atoms, and a methyl group attached to the first carbon atom of the double bond. This placement of the double bond and methyl group distinguishes it from its isomers, such as 3-methylcyclohexene and 4-methylcyclohexene.

The compound is generally prepared through dehydration reactions of alcohols, such as 1-methylcyclohexanol, using an acid catalyst. It participates in typical alkene reactions, including electrophilic addition. For instance, it can react with halogens like bromine to form dibromoalkanes or with hydrogen halides to produce alkyl halides. The regioselectivity of these additions often follows Markovnikov's rule, where the hydrogen atom adds to the carbon with more hydrogen atoms.

1-Methylcyclohexene finds some application as a starting material or intermediate in organic synthesis. Its relatively simple structure and reactive double bond make it a useful building block for creating more complex molecules. It is also used in research settings to study reaction mechanisms and properties of cyclic alkenes. Due to its flammability, it should be handled with appropriate safety precautions.