1. What It Is:
Benzene (C₆H₆) is a colorless, volatile, aromatic hydrocarbon with a sweet odor. It is a key petrochemical building block, widely used in industry but also highly toxic.
2. Key Properties:
- Chemical Formula: C₆H₆
- Structure: Ring of six carbon atoms with alternating double bonds (aromatic)
- Boiling Point: ~80.1°C
- Solubility: Slightly soluble in water, soluble in organic solvents
- Flammable & carcinogenic
3. Main Applications:
Chemical Production:
- Used to make styrene, cumene, phenol, aniline, and alkylbenzene
- Base for plastics, resins, synthetic fibers (e.g. nylon, polystyrene)
Solvent Use:
- Formerly used in paints, adhesives, and degreasers (limited now due to toxicity)
Fuel Additive:
- Found in small amounts in gasoline to boost octane
4. Health & Safety:
- Toxic: Can cause cancer (especially leukemia)
- Exposure through inhalation, skin contact, or ingestion
- Strictly regulated in workplaces and products
5. Source:
- Derived from crude oil refining or coal tar processing
