2chlorotoluene

2-Chlorotoluene, also known as o-chlorotoluene, is an aromatic organic compound with the formula C7H7Cl. It is one of the three chlorinated derivatives of toluene, the others being 3-chlorotoluene (m-chlorotoluene) and 4-chlorotoluene (p-chlorotoluene). In its structure, a chlorine substituent is adjacent to a methyl group on the benzene ring.

Physically, 2-chlorotoluene is typically a colorless liquid at room temperature. It is insoluble in water and soluble in many organic solvents. The compound has a relatively high boiling point due to its aromatic character and halogen substituent. It is reactive as an organochlorine, and the presence of chlorine makes it a useful building block for further chemical modification.

Production and applications of 2-chlorotoluene usually involve the chlorination of toluene under controlled conditions. The methyl group directs electrophilic chlorination toward the ortho and para positions, so the reaction mixture contains a mixture of chlorinated isomers, with separation yielding the ortho isomer among others. In industry, chlorotoluenes serve as intermediates for the synthesis of dyes, pigments, agrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, and various aryl derivatives. They can be transformed into amines, phenols, ethers, and other functionalized aromatics through standard organochlorine chemistry.

Safety and handling are important considerations. 2-Chlorotoluene is typically classified as hazardous; exposure can irritate the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. It should be handled in well-ventilated facilities with appropriate personal protective equipment, kept away from sources of ignition, and stored according to applicable regulations.