Benzene is a colorless and highly flammable aromatic hydrocarbon with a sweet odor, widely used as an industrial solvent, chemical intermediate, and precursor in the production of numerous chemicals including plastics, resins, and synthetic fibers.
🏭⚗️ Production
Benzene (C₆H₆) is produced mainly from petroleum sources via catalytic reforming of naphtha or steam cracking of hydrocarbons. It can also be obtained as a byproduct in coke production from coal. Purification involves distillation and extraction to obtain high-purity benzene.
🔬 Properties
The chemical formula is C₆H₆ with a molar mass of approximately 78.11 g/mol. Benzene appears as a colorless, volatile liquid with a boiling point of 80.1 °C and melting point of 5.5 °C. It is slightly soluble in water but miscible with most organic solvents. Benzene is aromatic with a planar hexagonal ring structure exhibiting resonance stabilization.
🧪 Applications
Benzene is used as a starting material in the manufacture of polymers, synthetic rubber, dyes, detergents, pharmaceuticals, and pesticides. It also serves as a solvent in laboratories and industrial processes.
⚠️ Safety
Benzene is highly toxic and carcinogenic; chronic exposure can cause serious health effects including bone marrow suppression and leukemia. It is flammable and volatile, requiring careful handling with adequate ventilation, use of personal protective equipment, and strict adherence to safety regulations. Storage should be in tightly sealed containers away from ignition sources.
