Phenylacetic acid

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Phenylacetic acid
Phenylacetic acid
IUPAC name Phenylacetic acid
Identifiers
CAS number 103-82-2
SMILES c1ccccc1CC(=O)O
Properties
Molecular formula C8H8O2
Molar mass 136.15 g/mol
Density 1.0809 g/cm3
Melting point

76-77 °C

Boiling point

265.5 °C

Except where noted otherwise, data are given for
materials in their standard state
(at 25 °C, 100 kPa)

Infobox disclaimer and references

Phenylacetic acid (abr. PAA and synonyms are: α-toluic acid, benzeneacetic acid, alpha tolylic acid, 2-phenylacetic acid) is an organic compound containing a phenyl functional group and an acetic acid functional group. It is a white solid with a disagreeable odor. Because it is used in the illicit production of phenylacetone, it is subject to controls in the United States.

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[edit] Significance

Phenylacetic acid has been found to be an active auxin (a type of plant hormone) molecule, predominantly found in fruits. However its effect is much weaker than the effect of the basic auxin molecule indole-3-acetic acid.

Phenylacetic acid is used in some perfumes, possessing a honey-like odour in low concentrations, and is also used in penicillin G production.

Its refractive index is 1.5025.

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