1. Basic Information
Chemical Formula: C7H14
Molecular Structure: It features a cyclohexane ring with one hydrogen atom substituted by a methyl group (−CH3). This cyclic structure endows it with unique physical and chemical properties.
2. Physical Properties
Appearance: At room temperature and pressure, it presents as a colorless, transparent liquid. It has a faint odor similar to gasoline, allowing for easy visual identification in a pure state without impurities.
Melting Point: Approximately -126.4°C. At temperatures below this value, it transitions from a liquid to a solid state.
Boiling Point: 80.7°C. When this temperature is reached, it boils and changes from a liquid to a gaseous state.
Density: About 0.779 g/cm³ at 20°C, which is less than that of water. So, if mixed with water, it will float on the water's surface.
Solubility: It is almost insoluble in water but miscible with many organic solvents such as alcohols, ethers, benzene, and acetone. This solubility property makes it a good choice as a solvent in various industrial applications.
3. Chemical Properties
Flammability: It is highly flammable. Its vapor can form an explosive mixture with air. When exposed to heat sources or open flames, there is a risk of combustion and explosion.
Reactivity: It can undergo substitution reactions. Under the action of light or catalysts, the hydrogen atoms on the methyl group or the cyclohexane ring can be substituted by halogen atoms or other groups. This reactivity enables its use as a raw material in organic synthesis.
4. Applications
Organic Solvent: It can dissolve many organic substances. In industries like coatings, inks, rubbers, and adhesives, it is often used as a solvent. For example, in the coating industry, it helps dissolve resins and adjust the viscosity and drying speed of the coating, ensuring the coating has good performance during application and drying.
Raw Material for Organic Synthesis: In the organic chemical industry, it can be used to manufacture compounds such as methylcyclohexanol and methylcyclohexanone. These compounds are further used in the production of fine chemical products like fragrances, pharmaceuticals, and pesticides. For instance, methylcyclohexanol can be an intermediate in the synthesis of certain fragrances, imparting specific odorous characteristics.