phenol

The phenol molecule with its ring of six carbon atoms and a hydroxyl (OH) group attached. Phenol was first extracted from coal tar in 1834. It is used to make phenolic and epoxy resins, explosives, pharmaceuticals, perfumes, and nylon.

Member of a group of aromatic chemical compounds with weakly acidic properties, which are characterized by a hydroxyl (OH) group attached directly to an aromatic ring. The simplest of the phenols, derived from benzene, is also known as phenol and has the formula C₆H₅OH. It is sometimes called carbolic acid and can be extracted from coal tar.

Pure phenol has a melting point of 41°C/105°F and consists of colourless, needle-shaped crystals, which take up moisture from the atmosphere and dissolve. It has a strong and characteristic smell and was once used as an antiseptic. It is, however, toxic by absorption through the skin.