V

Vanillin

IUPAC: 4-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzaldehyde

C8H8O3 Organic Compounds CAS 121-33-5
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Quick Reference
Formula / NotationC8H8O3
CAS Number121-33-5
Molecular Weight152.15
Melting Point178 to 181 °F (NTP, 1992)
Boiling Point545 °F at 760 mmHg (NTP, 1992)
Density1.056 at 68 °F (NTP, 1992) - Denser than water; will sink
SolubilitySlightly soluble (NTP, 1992)
AppearanceVanillin appears as white or very slightly yellow needles.
Also Known As4-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzaldehyde; 4-Hydroxy-3-methoxybenzaldehyde; 121-33-5; Vanillic aldehyde; Vanillaldehyde; p-Vanillin; Vanilline; Lioxin; 3-Methoxy-4-hydroxybenzaldehyde; 4-Hydroxy-3-methoxy-benzaldehyde
CategoryOrganic Compounds

What is Vanillin?

Vanillin is a member of the class of benzaldehydes carrying methoxy and hydroxy substituents at positions 3 and 4 respectively. It has a role as an antioxidant, a flavouring agent, an anticonvulsant, an anti-inflammatory agent and a plant metabolite. It is a member of benzaldehydes, a monomethoxybenzene and a member of phenols.

Formula & Notation

C8H8O3

IUPAC Name: 4-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzaldehyde

Other Names / Synonyms: 4-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzaldehyde; 4-Hydroxy-3-methoxybenzaldehyde; 121-33-5; Vanillic aldehyde; Vanillaldehyde; p-Vanillin; Vanilline; Lioxin; 3-Methoxy-4-hydroxybenzaldehyde; 4-Hydroxy-3-methoxy-benzaldehyde

Properties & Characteristics

Appearance: Vanillin appears as white or very slightly yellow needles.. Molecular formula: C8H8O3. Molecular weight: 152.15 g/mol. Boiling point: 545 °F at 760 mmHg (NTP, 1992). Melting point: 178 to 181 °F (NTP, 1992). Density: 1.056 at 68 °F (NTP, 1992) - Denser than water; will sink. Solubility: Slightly soluble (NTP, 1992). Vapor pressure: 1 mmHg at 225 °F (NTP, 1992). LogP: 1.2.

Physical Data

PropertyValue
Melting Point178 to 181 °F (NTP, 1992)
Boiling Point545 °F at 760 mmHg (NTP, 1992)
Density1.056 at 68 °F (NTP, 1992) - Denser than water; will sink
Molecular Weight152.15
SolubilitySlightly soluble (NTP, 1992)
AppearanceVanillin appears as white or very slightly yellow needles.

Uses & Applications

Used as an industrial feedstock, solvent, pharmaceutical intermediate, flavoring agent, or chemical building block.

Safety Information

Flammable or irritant. Many organic compounds are flammable liquids or vapours. Keep away from ignition sources. Consult SDS for specific hazard data.

Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.

Key Facts

Term Vanillin
Formula C8H8O3
CAS Number 121-33-5
Molecular Weight 152.15
Synonyms 4-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzaldehyde; 4-Hydroxy-3-methoxybenzaldehyde; 121-33-5; Vanillic aldehyde; Vanillaldehyde; p-Vanillin; Vanilline; Lioxin; 3-Methoxy-4-hydroxybenzaldehyde; 4-Hydroxy-3-methoxy-benzaldehyde

Frequently Asked Questions

Vanillin is a member of the class of benzaldehydes carrying methoxy and hydroxy substituents at positions 3 and 4 respectively. It has a role as an antioxidant, a flavouring agent, an anticonvulsant, an anti-inflammatory agent and a plant metabolite. It is a member of benzaldehydes, a monomethoxybenzene and a member of phenols.

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Editorial standards: Chemical data is sourced from peer-reviewed literature, CAS Registry, NIST WebBook, and PubChem. Safety information reflects guidance from OSHA, ECHA, and IAEA. For educational purposes only — always consult official SDS documentation and qualified professionals before handling chemicals.