triphenylmethanol

Triphenylmethanol is an organic compound with the chemical formula (C6H5)3COH. It is a colorless crystalline solid and is also known by several other names, including triphenylcarbinol and benzenehexol. The molecule consists of a central carbon atom bonded to three phenyl rings and a hydroxyl group.

Triphenylmethanol can be synthesized through the reaction of benzophenone with phenylmagnesium bromide, a Grignard reagent, followed by hydrolysis. Alternatively, it can be prepared by the reaction of ethyl benzoate with an excess of phenylmagnesium bromide.

This compound finds application as a starting material in the synthesis of various organic compounds, particularly dyes and pharmaceuticals. It is also used as a reagent in analytical chemistry. One notable application is in the detection of certain acids, where it acts as an indicator.

Triphenylmethanol is sparingly soluble in water but soluble in many organic solvents such as ethanol and diethyl ether. It is a relatively stable compound under normal conditions.