Examine phenols with Orbit molecular models. Learn phenol structure, functional groups, acidity, and biological significance for chemistry, biology, and medical students.
Phenols are aromatic compounds in which a hydroxyl group (-OH) is directly bonded to a benzene ring. This unique arrangement gives phenols chemical and biological properties distinct from both alcohols and simple aromatics. In organic chemistry, phenols are studied for their reactivity, acidity, and role in electrophilic aromatic substitution. In biology and medicine, phenols are essential in natural products, antiseptics, and pharmaceuticals, with applications ranging from antioxidants to anesthetics. Using a phenol molecular model allows students to visualize the aromatic π-system, hydrogen bonding potential, and the influence of resonance on acidity, critical for mastering phenol chemistry in both academic and applied settings.
Indigo Instruments has held inventory of genuine Cochranes of Oxford (Orbit) atoms & bonds for 30+ years. These parts are compatible with every molecular model set we have sold since day 1. This quality may appear expensive but no parts support from other vendors costs even more.
Compound | Chemistry Focus | Biology / Medicine / Nursing Focus |
---|---|---|
Phenol | Basic aromatic alcohol; weak acid; used to illustrate resonance stabilization of the phenoxide ion. | Historical antiseptic; precursor to pharmaceuticals; understanding toxicity and safe handling. |
Catechol (1,2-dihydroxybenzene) | Example of ortho-substituted phenol; hydrogen bonding effects on physical properties. | Component of neurotransmitter synthesis pathways (e.g., dopamine, norepinephrine). |
Resorcinol (1,3-dihydroxybenzene) | Meta-substitution effects on reactivity; key reagent in analytical chemistry. | Topical treatment for skin disorders; component in some antiseptic creams. |
Hydroquinone (1,4-dihydroxybenzene) | Para-substitution effects; redox-active compound in organic synthesis. | Used in skin-lightening products; antioxidant in biological and food systems. |
Thymol | Example of a substituted phenol with bulky alkyl groups influencing reactivity. | Antimicrobial agent found in mouthwashes and herbal remedies. |
Eugenol | Study of allyl-substituted phenols; demonstrates electrophilic substitution patterns. | Analgesic and antiseptic properties; key component of clove oil used in dentistry. |
The 4 molecules shown in the image going clockwise are phenol (lower left) and then meta, para and ortho-cresol; the set has enough parts to build just one of these at a time. Build these & other phenols with the Indigo® Instruments 3D Molecular Model Builder
I've had consistently great service from this company. Our students seem to really appreciate the reasonable price. In the years that we've used this product, not one has been returned due to defects.
Considering how many of these we sell to schools every year, that is high praise indeed. Thanks letting us know.