bensüüljodiid

Benzyl iodide, also known as iodomethylbenzene, is an organic compound with the chemical formula C7H7I. It is a colorless to pale yellow liquid or solid at room temperature, depending on its purity. Benzyl iodide is a derivative of toluene where one of the hydrogen atoms on the methyl group has been replaced by an iodine atom.

This compound is a reactive alkyl halide. Its primary use in organic chemistry is as a benzylating agent, meaning it can introduce a benzyl group (C6H5CH2-) into other molecules through nucleophilic substitution reactions. This is often employed in the synthesis of various organic compounds, including pharmaceuticals and other fine chemicals. Benzyl iodide can be synthesized through the reaction of benzyl alcohol with iodine in the presence of a suitable reagent, or by the free radical iodination of toluene.

Due to its reactivity, benzyl iodide is considered an irritant and should be handled with care. It is sensitive to light and air and can decompose over time, particularly if exposed to moisture. Proper storage in a cool, dark place, often under an inert atmosphere, is recommended to maintain its stability and reactivity. Its applications are primarily limited to laboratory synthesis and specialized industrial processes where its specific chemical properties are required.