What is 1 3 5 trimethyl benzene?

1,3,5-Trimethylbenzene (Mesitylene)

1,3,5-Trimethylbenzene, also known as mesitylene, is an aromatic hydrocarbon with the formula C₉H₁₂. It is a trisubstituted benzene derivative with methyl groups located at the 1, 3, and 5 positions.

• Structure and Properties: Mesitylene is a colorless liquid with a sweet, aromatic odor. It's a flammable compound. Its high symmetry contributes to its relatively high melting point compared to other trimethylbenzene isomers.

• Occurrence: It is a component of coal tar and petroleum.

• Production: Mesitylene can be produced by the catalytic trimerization of propyne or acetone. It can also be isolated from appropriate petroleum fractions via extraction or distillation.

• Uses: Mesitylene is used as a solvent especially for polymers. It is a precursor to the synthesis of other chemical compounds. For example it is used to make antioxidants. It is also used to study the alkylation mechanism of benzene.

• Reactions: Mesitylene readily participates in electrophilic aromatic substitution reactions.

• Safety: Mesitylene is considered a volatile organic compound (VOC). Appropriate safety precautions should be taken when handling it.