Orcinol

Orcinol, also known as 5-methylresorcinol, is a naturally occurring organic compound with the chemical formula C7H8O2. It is a white solid that is soluble in water and alcohol. Orcinol is a derivative of resorcinol, a dihydroxybenzene, with a methyl group attached to the benzene ring.

This compound is found in various lichen species, where it is often a component of orsellinic acid, a precursor to many other lichen substances. It can be extracted from lichens or synthesized in the laboratory. Orcinol has historically been used as a pH indicator and a reagent in analytical chemistry, particularly for the detection of pentoses and carbohydrates.

In the field of dyes and pigments, orcinol serves as a precursor for the synthesis of certain colorants. Its chemical structure allows for various reactions that can lead to colored compounds. Beyond its chemical applications, orcinol has also been investigated for potential biological activities, although further research is often needed to confirm these. Its presence in lichens suggests a role in the plant's metabolism or defense mechanisms. Orcinol is a relatively simple phenolic compound with a range of scientific and industrial applications.