| Formula / Notation | C10H8 |
|---|---|
| CAS Number | 91-20-3 |
| Molecular Weight | 128.17 |
| Melting Point | 176.4 °F (NTP, 1992) |
| Boiling Point | 424 °F at 760 mmHg (NTP, 1992) |
| Density | 1.15 (NIOSH, 2024) - Denser than water; will sink |
| Solubility | less than 1 mg/mL at 72 °F (NTP, 1992) |
| Appearance | Naphthalene appears as a white crystalline volatile solid with a strong coal-tar odor. The solid is denser than water and insoluble in water. Burns, but may be difficult to ignite. In the molten fo... |
| Also Known As | 91-20-3; Naphthalin; Tar camphor; White tar; Albocarbon; Naphthene; Camphor tar; naphtalene; Naphthaline; Moth balls |
| Category | Organic Compounds |
What is Naphthalene?
Naphthalene is an aromatic hydrocarbon comprising two fused benzene rings. It occurs in the essential oils of numerous plant species e.g. magnolia. It has a role as a volatile oil component, a carcinogenic agent, an apoptosis inhibitor, a mouse metabolite, a plant metabolite and an environmental contaminant. It is a member of naphthalenes and an ortho-fused bicyclic arene.
Formula & Notation
IUPAC Name: naphthalene
Other Names / Synonyms: 91-20-3; Naphthalin; Tar camphor; White tar; Albocarbon; Naphthene; Camphor tar; naphtalene; Naphthaline; Moth balls
Properties & Characteristics
Physical Data
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Melting Point | 176.4 °F (NTP, 1992) |
| Boiling Point | 424 °F at 760 mmHg (NTP, 1992) |
| Density | 1.15 (NIOSH, 2024) - Denser than water; will sink |
| Molecular Weight | 128.17 |
| Solubility | less than 1 mg/mL at 72 °F (NTP, 1992) |
| Appearance | Naphthalene appears as a white crystalline volatile solid with a strong coal-tar odor. The solid is denser than water and insoluble in water. Burns, but may be difficult to ignite. In the molten fo... |
Uses & Applications
Safety Information
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
Naphthalene is an aromatic hydrocarbon comprising two fused benzene rings. It occurs in the essential oils of numerous plant species e.g. magnolia. It has a role as a volatile oil component, a carcinogenic agent, an apoptosis inhibitor, a mouse metabolite, a plant metabolite and an environmental contaminant. It is a member of naphthalenes and an ortho-fused bicyclic arene.
Used as an industrial feedstock, solvent, pharmaceutical intermediate, flavoring agent, or chemical building block.
Flammable or irritant. Many organic compounds are flammable liquids or vapours. Keep away from ignition sources. Consult SDS for specific hazard data.
The formula or notation for Naphthalene is: C10H8