23naphthalenediol

2,3-Naphthalenediol is an organic compound with the chemical formula C10H8O2. It is a derivative of naphthalene, a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon, with two hydroxyl groups attached to adjacent carbon atoms at the 2 and 3 positions of one of the naphthalene rings. It is also known as 2,3-dihydroxynaphthalene. Structurally, it features a fused ring system characteristic of naphthalene, with the addition of two polar hydroxyl functional groups.

This compound is typically encountered as a solid. Its physical properties, such as melting point and solubility, are influenced by the presence of the hydroxyl groups, which can participate in hydrogen bonding. 2,3-Naphthalenediol can exhibit tautomerism, existing in equilibrium with its keto forms, although the enol form is generally favored.

In terms of reactivity, the hydroxyl groups make 2,3-naphthalenediol susceptible to reactions characteristic of phenols, such as etherification and esterification. The aromatic rings can also undergo electrophilic aromatic substitution. It has found applications as an intermediate in the synthesis of various organic compounds, including dyes and pharmaceuticals. Its specific uses are often tied to its ability to act as a building block for more complex molecular structures. Research continues into its potential applications and chemical properties.