C18H12O4

C18H12O4 is the molecular formula for a compound that can exist in several isomeric forms. One common isomer with this formula is dibenzoylmethane. Dibenzoylmethane is an organic compound belonging to the class of beta-diketones. It is characterized by two benzoyl groups attached to a central methylene group. This structure allows for keto-enol tautomerism, where the molecule can exist in equilibrium between a diketo form and an enol form. The enol form is stabilized by intramolecular hydrogen bonding.

Dibenzoylmethane finds applications as a chelating agent, forming stable complexes with various metal ions. This property makes it useful in analytical chemistry for the determination of metals. It has also been investigated for its potential use as a UV absorber in sunscreens and as a stabilizer in polymers. In organic synthesis, it serves as a versatile building block due to the reactivity of its active methylene group. Its physical properties include being a crystalline solid, typically white or pale yellow, with a melting point around 77-79 °C. It is generally soluble in organic solvents but poorly soluble in water.