2phenylpropan1ol

2-Phenylpropan-1-ol, also known as alpha-methylphenethyl alcohol, is an organic compound with the chemical formula C9H12O. It is a colorless liquid at room temperature and possesses a mild, sweet, floral odor. This compound is a primary alcohol and contains a phenyl group and a propyl chain with a methyl substituent on the second carbon atom. It exists as a chiral molecule, meaning it has two enantiomers, (R)-2-phenylpropan-1-ol and (S)-2-phenylpropan-1-ol, due to the presence of a stereocenter at the carbon bearing the phenyl group and the methyl group.

2-Phenylpropan-1-ol can be synthesized through various chemical reactions, including the reduction of 2-phenylpropionaldehyde or 2-phenylpropionic acid derivatives. It finds limited but notable applications, primarily as a fragrance ingredient in perfumes and cosmetic products due to its pleasant aroma. It can also serve as a building block or intermediate in the synthesis of other more complex organic molecules within the pharmaceutical and chemical industries. Its presence is also noted in certain natural sources, albeit in trace amounts.