2Hydroxy1Hbenzimidazole

2Hydroxy1Hbenzimidazol-2-one, also known as 2-hydroxybenzimidazolone or often by its trade name, benzimidazolone, is an organic compound. It has the chemical formula C7H6N2O2. Structurally, it consists of a benzimidazole ring system with a hydroxyl group attached to the carbon atom at position 2. This molecule exhibits tautomerism, meaning it can exist in different structural forms that are in equilibrium with each other, primarily between the keto and enol forms. The presence of the hydroxyl group and the nitrogen atoms in the ring contributes to its chemical reactivity. It is typically a white to off-white crystalline solid. Benzimidazolone is known for its stability and its ability to form hydrogen bonds, which influences its physical properties such as melting point and solubility. It finds applications as a building block or intermediate in the synthesis of various organic molecules, including dyes and pharmaceuticals. Its specific properties make it useful in certain chemical reactions and material science applications.