Metaethyltoluene

Metaethyltoluene is a chemical compound with the molecular formula C9H12. It is an aromatic hydrocarbon and a derivative of toluene, where an ethyl group (-CH2CH3) is attached to the benzene ring at the meta position relative to the methyl group (-CH3). Its IUPAC name is 1-ethyl-3-methylbenzene. It is a colorless liquid at room temperature and is insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents.

The production of metaethyltoluene can occur through various synthetic routes, often involving the alkylation of toluene or other aromatic compounds. Its isomers, orthoethyltoluene and paraethyltoluene, are also common and have different physical and chemical properties. The specific arrangement of the ethyl and methyl groups on the benzene ring dictates its reactivity and applications.

Metaethyltoluene finds limited direct applications as a standalone chemical. However, it can serve as an intermediate in the synthesis of other organic chemicals, including dyes, pharmaceuticals, and agrochemicals. Its presence can also be observed as a component in certain petroleum fractions or industrial solvents. The study of its properties and reactions is relevant to organic chemistry and the broader field of chemical manufacturing. Due to its flammability and potential health effects associated with aromatic hydrocarbons, appropriate handling and safety precautions are necessary when working with metaethyltoluene.