3tolyl

3-tolyl, also known as meta-tolyl, is a substituent group used in organic chemistry. It denotes the 3-methylphenyl group: a benzene ring bearing a methyl substituent at the third carbon, while the rest of the molecule is attached to the ring at the first carbon. The 3-tolyl group is part of the tolyl family, alongside o-tolyl (2-tolyl) and p-tolyl (4-tolyl). In systematic terms, 3-tolyl is often described as 3-methylphenyl.

Structurally, the ring has two substituents: a methyl group at the 3-position and a linkage to the parent molecule at the 1-position, with the remaining ring positions bearing hydrogen. The same concept applies across the tolyl isomers, which differ by where the ring attaches to the rest of the molecule relative to the methyl substituent.

Uses and applications: The 3-tolyl group is a common building block in organic synthesis. It appears in pharmaceuticals, dyes, agrochemicals, and polymers as a hydrophobic aryl substituent. In modern synthesis, 3-tolyl derivatives are frequently introduced via cross-coupling reactions using 3-tolyl halides or 3-tolyl boron reagents, enabling the construction of 3-aryl frameworks. The meta orientation can influence the steric and electronic properties of the final compound compared with the ortho- or para-tolyl substitutions.

Preparation and handling: Tolyl substituents are typically prepared and employed through established organometallic and cross-coupling methodologies. Safety considerations for tolyl-containing compounds include flammability and potential irritation; standard laboratory precautions apply, including appropriate ventilation and personal protective equipment.

See also: o-tolyl, p-tolyl, tolyl, 3-methylphenyl.