selenophenol

Selenophenol is an organoselenium compound with the chemical formula C6H5SeH. It is also known as phenylselenylhydride. It is a colorless liquid with a pungent odor. Selenophenol is a weak acid, with a pKa of approximately 5.1. It is soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol and ether, but sparingly soluble in water.

Selenophenol can be synthesized by the reduction of benzeneseleninic acid or benzeneselenyl chloride. It can also be prepared by the reaction of phenylmagnesium bromide with elemental selenium followed by protonation.

This compound is reactive and can undergo various chemical transformations. It is a nucleophile and can react with electrophiles. It can also be oxidized to form diselenides. Selenophenol and its derivatives are used in organic synthesis as reagents and catalysts. For example, they are employed in the synthesis of organic selenides, which are valuable intermediates in medicinal chemistry and materials science. The selenium atom's ability to readily undergo redox reactions makes it useful in catalytic cycles.

Due to its unpleasant odor and potential toxicity, selenophenol should be handled with appropriate precautions in a well-ventilated area. It is typically stored under an inert atmosphere to prevent oxidation.