C6H5SOR

C6H5SOR represents a class of organic compounds known as sulfinates. The general formula indicates a phenyl group (C6H5) attached to a sulfinyl group (SOR), where R is an organic radical. These compounds are derivatives of sulfinic acid (RSO2H) where one of the hydrogen atoms on the sulfur is replaced by an organic group, and the other by a phenyl group in this specific case. Sulfinates are characterized by a sulfur atom double-bonded to one oxygen atom and single-bonded to another oxygen atom, which in turn is bonded to an organic group.

The phenyl group, a benzene ring with the formula C6H6 minus one hydrogen, provides aromatic character to the molecule. The sulfur atom in the sulfinyl group is in an intermediate oxidation state, typically +4. Phenylsulfinates can be synthesized through various methods, often involving the reaction of sulfinyl chlorides with appropriate organic reagents or through the oxidation of thiophenols. These compounds can exhibit tautomerism and exist as resonance structures due to the delocalization of electrons within the sulfinyl group. Their reactivity is influenced by both the aromatic phenyl ring and the electron-withdrawing nature of the sulfinyl group. Phenylsulfinates find applications in organic synthesis as intermediates and reagents, and some derivatives may possess biological activity.