Indanol

Indanol is a chemical compound with the molecular formula C9H10O. It is a bicyclic organic molecule that consists of a benzene ring fused to a five-membered ring containing a hydroxyl group. There are two common isomers of indanol, 1-indanol and 2-indanol, differing in the position of the hydroxyl group. 1-Indanol has the hydroxyl group attached to the carbon atom adjacent to the fusion point of the rings, while 2-indanol has it on the second carbon atom away from the fusion point.

Both isomers are typically white crystalline solids at room temperature. They are sparingly soluble in water but soluble in common organic solvents like ethanol and ether. Indanol and its derivatives find applications in organic synthesis as intermediates for the production of pharmaceuticals, fragrances, and other fine chemicals. For example, indanol derivatives can be used in the synthesis of certain antidepressants and anti-inflammatory drugs. Research has also explored their potential as chiral building blocks in asymmetric synthesis due to the presence of a chiral center in some indanol structures. The specific properties and reactivity of indanol depend on the isomer and the presence of any substituents on the molecule.