diphenylmethanol

Diphenylmethanol, also known as benzhydrol, is an organic compound with the formula C13H12O. It features a benzylic carbon bearing a hydroxyl group and two attached phenyl rings. Because the two phenyl groups are identical, the molecule is achiral. Diphenylmethanol is a colorless solid at room temperature and is poorly soluble in water, but soluble in many organic solvents such as ethanol, acetone, diethyl ether, and chloroform.

Preparation and structure: The compound is commonly prepared by reducing benzophenone (diphenyl ketone) with hydride donors such as sodium borohydride or lithium aluminium hydride. This reaction converts the carbonyl group of benzophenone to the secondary alcohol, yielding diphenylmethanol. The material serves as a versatile synthetic building block in organic chemistry.

Applications: Diphenylmethanol is used as an intermediate in the synthesis of benzhydryl esters and ethers. It also appears as a starting material or reference compound in pharmaceutical research and fragrance chemistry, where benzhydryl moieties are valued for their chemical reactivity and odor-related properties.

Safety and handling: Diphenylmethanol should be handled in a well-ventilated area with appropriate personal protective equipment. It can be irritating to skin and eyes and may cause respiratory irritation if inhaled. It is generally stored away from oxidizing agents and sources of ignition, and standard laboratory waste disposal practices should be followed.