M-Cymene Explained

m-Cymene is an organic compound classified as an aromatic hydrocarbon. Its structure consists of a benzene ring meta-substituted with a methyl group and an isopropyl group. It is a flammable colorless liquid which is nearly insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents.

Isomers and production

In addition to m-cymene, there are two other geometric isomers called o-cymene, in which the alkyl groups are ortho-substituted, and p-cymene, in which they are para-substituted. p-Cymene is the most common and only natural isomer. The three isomers form the group of cymenes.

Cymenes can be produced by alkylation of toluene with propylene.[1]

References

  1. Encyclopedia: Alkylation. Bipin V.. Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology. Vora. Joseph A.. Kocal. Paul T.. Barger. Robert J.. Schmidt. James A.. Johnson. 2003. Kirk‐Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology. 10.1002/0471238961.0112112508011313.a01.pub2. 0471238961.