benzenecarboxamide

Benzenecarboxamide, commonly known as benzamide, is an organic compound with the formula C7H7NO. It is the amide of benzoic acid, consisting of a benzene ring attached to a carboxamide group (CONH2). It is a simple, structurally straightforward amide and a widely used building block in organic synthesis.

Benzamide is a white to off-white crystalline solid. It melts at about 128 °C. It is sparingly soluble in water but dissolves in hot water and in many organic solvents such as ethanol, acetone, and chloroform. The amide group imparts polarity to the molecule, while the benzene ring provides hydrophobic character, giving benzamide a mixed solubility profile.

Synthesis and routes to benzamide include several standard methods. A common laboratory route is to convert benzoic acid to benzoyl chloride, then react the acyl chloride with ammonia to yield benzamide. Another route is hydrolysis of benzonitrile under acidic or basic conditions. Direct amidation of benzoic acid with ammonia using specialized coupling reagents is also employed in certain contexts.

Applications of benzamide center on its role as a versatile building block for the synthesis of more complex benzamide derivatives. These derivatives are used as intermediates in pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and dye chemistry. Benzamide serves as a convenient starting material for functional group transformations and for accessing a variety of benzamide-containing compounds.

Safety and handling considerations include the general precautions associated with amides: potential irritation to skin and eyes, and the need for appropriate protective equipment. Benzamide is generally regarded as having low to moderate toxicity; disposal should follow applicable regulations.