5methylbenzene13diol

5methylbenzene13diol is a chemical compound with the systematic name 1,3-dihydroxy-5-methylbenzene, commonly referred to as orcinol. It is a type of phenolic compound, characterized by the presence of two hydroxyl (–OH) groups attached to a benzene ring, with a methyl (–CH₃) substituent at the fifth carbon position. The structure consists of a benzene ring with hydroxyl groups at the first and third carbons and a methyl group at the fifth carbon, giving it the IUPAC name 3,5-dihydroxy toluene.

Orcinol is naturally occurring and can be found in various plant sources, including lichens, fungi, and certain types of algae. It is also synthesized in laboratories for research and industrial applications. The compound is notable for its role in the formation of melanin and other pigments, contributing to the coloration of biological tissues. In organic chemistry, orcinol serves as a precursor in the synthesis of other aromatic compounds and is used in analytical chemistry for detecting sugars and other carbohydrates via the orcinol-sulfuric acid reaction, which produces a blue-green color.

Due to its phenolic nature, orcinol exhibits antioxidant properties, though its biological activity has been less extensively studied compared to other phenolic compounds like resveratrol or catechins. Industrially, it is used in the production of dyes, pharmaceuticals, and as a reagent in analytical procedures. The compound is generally considered stable under normal conditions but may undergo oxidation or polymerization under harsh conditions. Safety data indicates that orcinol is moderately toxic when ingested in large amounts, and proper handling precautions are recommended in laboratory settings.