Benzenesulfinate

Benzenesulfinate is a chemical compound with the formula C6H5SO2-. It is the conjugate base of benzenesulfinic acid. The benzenesulfinate anion consists of a benzene ring bonded to a sulfinate group (-SO2-). This functional group contains a sulfur atom double-bonded to one oxygen atom and single-bonded to another oxygen atom, with a negative charge delocalized between the oxygen atoms. Benzenesulfinate salts are formed when benzenesulfinic acid reacts with a base. For example, sodium benzenesulfinate, C6H5SO2Na, is a common and stable salt. These salts are typically white crystalline solids and are soluble in water and polar organic solvents. Benzenesulfinate and its derivatives find applications in organic synthesis, particularly as nucleophiles in substitution reactions and as precursors to sulfones. They can also be used as reducing agents in certain chemical processes. The sulfinate group is a versatile functional group, and the aromatic nature of the benzene ring influences the reactivity and properties of benzenesulfinate.