Acetylbenzene

/əˌsiːtəlˈbɛnziːn/ noun

Definition

A chemical compound made by adding an acetyl group to benzene, commonly known as acetophenone and used in manufacturing fragrances, medicines, and dyes.

Etymology

From acetyl + benzene (the six-carbon ring compound). First synthesized in the 19th century through Friedel-Crafts acylation, a fundamental organic chemistry reaction.

Kelly Says

Acetylbenzene smells like bitter almonds mixed with sweet flowers, and while it's used in perfumes and flavorings, it's also a precursor to methamphetamine production, making it a controlled chemical in many countries.

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