C12H14O4

C12H14O4 is the molecular formula for several chemical compounds. One notable compound with this formula is diethyl phthalate, a diester of phthalic acid. Diethyl phthalate is a colorless liquid with a faint, pleasant odor. It is often used as a plasticizer, particularly in cellulose nitrate-based plastics like nail polish and lacquers. It also finds application as a solvent for perfumes and as a denaturant for ethanol. Due to its widespread use, it is sometimes found in consumer products.

Another compound with the molecular formula C12H14O4 is dimethoxyphenylalanine, an analog of the amino acid phenylalanine. This compound is not naturally occurring and is primarily of interest in biochemical research, particularly in studies involving protein synthesis and amino acid metabolism. Its specific properties and applications are largely confined to laboratory settings and specialized scientific investigations. The diversity of structures possible with the C12H14O4 formula highlights the importance of specifying the exact chemical name or structure when referring to a particular substance.