Phenol is a white or colorless crystal that deliquesces easily. It gradually turns into reddish crystals in the air or when exposed to unclean substances. It has a special smell, is toxic, and is highly corrosive. Phenol, also known as phenol, commonly known as carbolic acid, is a weak acid with acid properties. Phenol is extremely weakly acidic, weaker than carbonic acid, and cannot cause the acid-base indicator to fade.
The CAS number of phenol is 108-95-2, and its molecular formula is C6H6O.
Phenol is one of the main components of coal tar. In 1834, Runge discovered phenol from coal tar. In 1841, Laurent prepared crystallized phenol for the first time. Phenol is a product in which one hydrogen atom on the benzene ring is replaced by a hydroxyl group.