Exploring the World of Para-Cymene
Para-Cymene, also known as p-Cymene, is a naturally occurring aromatic organic compound. It is classified as an alkylbenzene related to monocyclic monoterpenes. Its structure consists of a benzene ring para-substituted with a methyl group and an isopropyl group. Get more news about
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## Physical Properties
p-Cymene is a colorless, transparent liquid with a mild, pleasant odor described as sweet and somewhat citrusy. It is insoluble in water but miscible with organic solvents. It has a molar mass of 134.222 g·mol −1 and a density of 0.857 g/cm 3.
## Production and Isomers
In addition to p-cymene, two less common geometric isomers are o-cymene and m-cymene. p-Cymene is the only natural isomer, as expected from the terpene rule. All three isomers form the group of cymenes. Cymene is also produced by alkylation of toluene with propene.
## Applications
p-Cymene is an alkyl aromatic hydrocarbon mainly used to study oxidation reactions under various conditions to synthesize highly valuable intermediates and building-blocks such as cymene hydroperoxide, 4-methyl acetophenone, 4-isopropyl benzyl alcohol, 4-isopropyl benzaldehyde and 4-isopropyl benzoic acid etc.
## Occurrence in Nature
It is a constituent of a number of essential oils, most commonly the oil of cumin and thyme. Significant amounts are formed in sulfite pulping process from the wood terpenes.
## Aroma and Flavor
Its aroma and flavor have been described as having hints of citrus, earth, and wood. It is used as an ingredient in perfumes and artificial fruit-flavoring agents.