C8H10O

C8H10O is the molecular formula that describes a family of organic compounds rather than a single substance. It indicates eight carbon atoms, ten hydrogen atoms, and one oxygen atom in each molecule. Because different arrangements of these atoms yield distinct structures, numerous isomers share this formula, spanning several functional groups and stereochemical possibilities. The exact properties of any given compound depend on its specific structure.

Common classes and notable isomers include:

- Alcohols: 1-phenylethanol (Ph-CH(OH)-CH3), a secondary aromatic alcohol; and 2-phenylethanol (phenethyl alcohol, Ph-CH2-CH2-OH), a primary aromatic alcohol. These can differ in polarity, odor, and boiling point.

- Ethers: Ethyl phenyl ether (phenetole, Ph-O-CH2-CH3), an aromatic ether with a relatively moderate boiling point.

- Phenols and substituted aromatics: 4-ethylphenol (para-ethylphenol), where an ethyl group and a hydroxyl group are on a benzene ring, yielding distinct scent and reactivity.

Physical properties of C8H10O isomers vary considerably due to functional group differences. Boiling points typically range from the low hundreds of degrees Celsius, influenced by hydrogen bonding (as in alcohols and phenols) or dipole interactions (as in ethers). Some isomers are liquids at room temperature, while others may be solids or higher-boiling liquids.

Applications and occurrence are context-dependent. Individual isomers are used as fragrance and flavor components or as intermediates in organic synthesis and pharmaceutical development. Because many distinct compounds share the same formula, C8H10O is best understood as a set of related structures rather than a single chemical entity.