acetophenone

Acetophenone, IUPAC name 1-phenylethanone and also known as phenyl methyl ketone, is an aromatic ketone with the formula C8H8O. Its structure comprises a phenyl group bonded to a carbonyl carbon adjacent to a methyl group (Ph-CO-CH3). It is a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a characteristic almond-like odor.

Physically, acetophenone is moderately soluble in organic solvents and has a higher affinity for nonpolar media than for water. It is fairly stable under ordinary conditions but is flammable and should be kept away from heat and oxidizers. Its boiling point is around 202 °C, and it has a density close to that of water, with properties that make it convenient for use as a synthetic intermediate in organic chemistry.

Occurrence and production are mainly industrial. Acetophenone is produced commercially by Friedel–Crafts acylation of benzene with acetyl chloride in the presence of a Lewis acid catalyst such as aluminum chloride. It can also be prepared in smaller quantities via alternative acylation routes in the laboratory.

Applications include use as a fragrance and flavoring ingredient due to its almond-like scent. It serves as an important intermediate in the synthesis of perfumes, flavor compounds, and various pharmaceuticals. As a reactive ketone, it participates in numerous organic transformations, enabling the construction of more complex molecules.

Safety considerations include its flammability and irritation potential to skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. It should be handled with appropriate containment and proper ventilation, using standard laboratory precautions.