CH32CC6H4OH2

CH32CC6H4OH2 is a misrepresented or incorrectly formatted chemical structure, likely intended to describe a common organic compound. The correct chemical formula for phenol, a widely studied aromatic alcohol, is C6H5OH. Phenol is an organic compound consisting of a hydroxyl group (−OH) attached to a benzene ring (C6H5).

Phenol is a colorless crystalline solid that is volatile and has a distinct odor. It is slightly soluble in water but highly soluble in organic solvents. Phenol is a key intermediate in the production of plastics, pharmaceuticals, and synthetic resins. It is also used in the manufacture of disinfectants, herbicides, and explosives.

In its pure form, phenol is corrosive to skin and mucous membranes, requiring careful handling. It exhibits weak acidic properties due to the presence of the hydroxyl group, which can donate a proton in certain chemical reactions. Phenol undergoes various reactions, including electrophilic aromatic substitution, where the hydroxyl group activates the benzene ring toward further substitution.

Historically, phenol was first isolated from coal tar during the production of coal gas. Today, it is primarily synthesized industrially through the cumene process, which involves the oxidation of cumene (isopropylbenzene) followed by acid-catalyzed cleavage to yield phenol and acetone as byproducts.

Phenol plays a significant role in biological systems as well. It is a precursor to several biologically important compounds, including hormones like thyroxine and neurotransmitters. However, high concentrations of phenol can be toxic to living organisms, affecting cellular functions and contributing to oxidative stress.