Benzyl bromide (CAS 100-39-0) is a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a strong, unpleasant odor. It has a basic structure consisting of a benzene ring attached to a bromine atom. This chemical is sparingly soluble in water, but it can dissolve in organic solvents such as ethanol and ether. Benzyl bromide has a boiling point of 198-200°C and a melting point of -15°C.
Benzyl bromide is known for its reactivity and can undergo various chemical reactions. It can react with nucleophiles, such as amines, to form substituted benzylamines. It can also undergo substitution reactions with other nucleophiles, such as hydroxide ions, to form substituted benzyl alcohols. Additionally, benzyl bromide can be used as a starting material in the synthesis of various organic compounds.
Applicable Fields
Organic Synthesis: Benzyl bromide is commonly used in organic synthesis as a reagent or starting material. It can be used to introduce the benzyl group into a molecule, which can then undergo further reactions to form desired products.
Pharmaceutical Industry: This chemical can be used in the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds. It can be used to introduce the benzyl group into a molecule, which can affect the compound's properties and interactions with biological systems.
Mechanism of Action
The mechanism of action of benzyl bromide depends on the specific reaction it is involved in. In nucleophilic substitution reactions, benzyl bromide acts as an electrophile, with the bromine atom being replaced by a nucleophile. This allows for the introduction of the benzyl group into a molecule. In other reactions, benzyl bromide can act as a leaving group, allowing for the substitution of the benzyl group with another group.
Storage Conditions
Store in a cool, dry place.