omethoxybenzoic

o-Methoxybenzoic acid, also known as 2-methoxybenzoic acid or ortho-anisic acid, is an organic compound with the chemical formula C8H8O3. It is a derivative of benzoic acid where a methoxy group (-OCH3) is attached to the ortho position (position 2) of the benzene ring. This compound typically appears as a white crystalline solid.

The physical properties of o-methoxybenzoic acid include a melting point of approximately 100-102 °C and a boiling point of around 280 °C. It is sparingly soluble in water but readily dissolves in organic solvents like ethanol and diethyl ether. Its chemical structure features both a carboxylic acid group and an ether linkage, which contributes to its reactivity.

o-Methoxybenzoic acid can be synthesized through various chemical routes, often involving the modification of related aromatic compounds. One common method is the oxidation of 2-methoxybenzaldehyde.

In terms of applications, o-methoxybenzoic acid serves as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals and other fine chemicals. It can be used in the production of dyes and agrochemicals. Its chemical properties make it a useful building block in organic synthesis for creating more complex molecules. It is also sometimes used as a laboratory reagent for specific chemical reactions.