acetanisole

Acetanisole, also known as 4-methoxyacetophenone or methyl 4-methoxyphenyl ketone, is an organic compound with the chemical formula C9H10O2. It is a white crystalline solid at room temperature. Acetanisole has a characteristic sweet, floral, and slightly spicy aroma, often described as reminiscent of hawthorn or mimosa.

This compound is found naturally in some plants, including dill and fennel. However, it is primarily produced synthetically for use in various industries. Its pleasant fragrance makes it a valuable ingredient in perfumery and cosmetics, where it is employed in soaps, lotions, and perfumes to impart a sweet, floral scent. It can also be used as a flavoring agent in certain food products, although its use in this capacity is more limited.

In organic chemistry, acetanisole serves as a building block for the synthesis of other more complex molecules. It can undergo various reactions, such as electrophilic aromatic substitution and oxidation, to create a range of derivatives. Its presence in natural sources and its synthetic accessibility contribute to its ongoing interest in both industrial applications and academic research.