Methyl benzoate facts for kids

Methyl benzoate is a type of organic compound. It's a clear, colorless liquid that has a pleasant, fruity, or floral smell. You might find its scent familiar because it's used in many everyday products!

Its chemical formula is C₆H₅CO₂CH₃. This formula tells us it's made up of carbon (C), hydrogen (H), and oxygen (O) atoms. Methyl benzoate doesn't mix well with water, but it dissolves easily in other organic liquids, like alcohol.

What is Methyl Benzoate?

Methyl benzoate is a special kind of chemical called an ester. Esters are known for often having nice smells, and many of them are found naturally in fruits and flowers. Methyl benzoate is a synthetic chemical, meaning it's made by people in a lab, but it smells like some natural things.

How is it Made?

Methyl benzoate is usually made by mixing benzoic acid with methanol. This process is called esterification. It's a common way chemists create many different esters.

What is Methyl Benzoate Used For?

Because of its unique smell, methyl benzoate is used in several different ways.

In Perfumes and Fragrances

One of the main uses for methyl benzoate is in the world of perfumes and other scented products. Its sweet, floral, and slightly fruity scent makes it a popular ingredient. It can help create the smell of flowers like ylang-ylang, tuberose, and even some types of orchids. You might find it in:

• Perfumes and colognes
• Soaps and shampoos
• Lotions and creams
• Air fresheners

In Flavors

Methyl benzoate can also be used as a flavor ingredient, but only in very small amounts. It can add a fruity or berry-like note to certain foods and drinks. However, it's more commonly used for its smell than its taste.

Other Uses

Sometimes, methyl benzoate is used in laboratories as a solvent. A solvent is a liquid that can dissolve other substances. It's also used in some specialized chemical reactions.

Properties of Methyl Benzoate

Methyl benzoate has some interesting properties:

• It is a liquid at room temperature.
• It boils at a temperature of about 199.6 degrees Celsius (391.3 degrees Fahrenheit).
• It freezes at a very cold temperature, around -12.5 degrees Celsius (9.5 degrees Fahrenheit).
• It has a density of about 1.08 grams per cubic centimeter, which means it's a bit heavier than water.

Safety and Handling

Like many chemicals, methyl benzoate should be handled carefully. It is important to always follow safety rules when working with any chemical.

Images for kids

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  The chemical structure of Methyl benzoate.