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Benzyl formate

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Identification
Molecular formula
C8H8O2
CAS number
104-57-4
IUPAC name
benzyl formate
State
State

At room temperature, benzyl formate is a liquid. It is soluble in organic solvents such as alcohol and ether but only slightly soluble in water, making it versatile in various chemical applications and formulations.

Melting point (Celsius)
-51.00
Melting point (Kelvin)
222.15
Boiling point (Celsius)
194.00
Boiling point (Kelvin)
467.15
General information
Molecular weight
150.17g/mol
Molar mass
150.1740g/mol
Density
1.0561g/cm3
Appearence

Benzyl formate is a colorless liquid that becomes slightly yellowish as it ages. It is transparent and has a sharp, pleasant, balsamic odor reminiscent of jasmine or like the scent of cherries. It is often used in perfumes and flavorings due to its agreeable aromatic properties.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Benzyl Formate

Benzyl formate, with the chemical formula C8H8O2, is an ester that exhibits interesting solubility properties. Its solubility can be influenced by various factors, including temperature and the nature of the solvent. Here are some key points regarding its solubility:

  • Solvent Compatibility: Benzyl formate is generally soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol, acetone, and chloroform.
  • Limited Water Solubility: It has low solubility in water due to its non-polar characteristics, with a solubility limit of about 0.5 g/L at room temperature.
  • Temperature Dependence: Increasing temperature may enhance its solubility in organic solvents, allowing for better dissolution.
  • Aromaticity: Its aromatic ring contributes to its hydrophobic nature, further limiting solubility in polar solvents.

In summary, while benzyl formate is soluble in many non-polar organic solvents, it remains largely insoluble in water. Understanding these solubility characteristics is vital for applications in chemical synthesis and formulation processes.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts about Benzyl Formate

Benzyl formate is a fascinating chemical compound widely recognized for its unique properties and applications in various industries. Here are some intriguing aspects of this compound:

  • Fragrance Profile: Benzyl formate is notable for its sweet, floral scent, which makes it a popular ingredient in the perfume industry. It is often used to enhance the fragrance of products such as soaps, lotions, and other personal care items.
  • Chemical Structure: This compound features a structure that combines a benzyl group with a formate moiety. The functional groups involved contribute to its distinctive aromatic characteristics.
  • Natural Occurrence: Benzyl formate can be found naturally in several essential oils, including that of jasmine. Its natural presence further contributes to its desirability in scent formulations.
  • Flavoring Agent: Beyond its use in perfumes, benzyl formate also serves as a flavoring agent in the food industry, adding a sweet and fruity essence to various food products.
  • Solvent Properties: Due to its solvent capabilities, benzyl formate is utilized in various chemical reactions and processes, including the synthesis of other compounds.
  • Biodegradability: One of the environmental advantages of benzyl formate is its relative biodegradability, making it a more sustainable choice in formulations compared to some synthetic alternatives.

Overall, benzyl formate is not only an essential player in the fragrance and flavor industries but also showcases the intricate beauty of organic chemistry through its unique structure and multifunctional applications.

Synonyms
Benzyl formate
104-57-4
Benzyl methanoate
Formic acid, phenylmethyl ester
Phenylmethyl formate
Benzyl alcohol, formate
Formic acid, benzyl ester
Benzyl formiat
FORMIC ACID BENZYL ESTER
Ameisensaeurebenzylester
Benzylester kyseliny mravenci
FEMA No. 2145
Carbobenzoxy Group
NSC 8049
EINECS 203-214-4
UNII-79GJF97O0Y
Benzylester kyseliny mravenci [Czech]
BRN 2041319
79GJF97O0Y
AI3-02951
Formic acid-benzyl ester
NSC-8049
MFCD00014128
BENZYL FORMATE [MI]
BENZYL FORMATE [FCC]
BENZYL FORMATE [FHFI]
DTXSID5059298
FEMA 2145
4-06-00-02262 (Beilstein Handbook Reference)
Benzyl formic acid
Formate benzyl ester
(phenylmethyl) methanoate
carbanic acid benzyl ester
SCHEMBL503
WLN: VHO1R
CHEBI:3057
DTXCID7032846
formic acid (phenylmethyl) ester
NSC8049
Benzyl formate, analytical standard
Benzyl formate, natural, 97%, FG
Benzyl formate, >=95%, FCC, FG
AKOS015964923
DB04569
DS-6364
BZO
SY050090
CS-0128265
F0050
NS00012002
C05613
D70183
A801004
Q4083784
203-214-4
Formic acid, benzyl ester (6CI,7CI,8CI); Benzyl alcohol, formate; Benzyl formate; Benzyl methanoate; NSC 8049