p-Aminophenol
Other names: para-aminophenol, 4-aminophenol, 1-Amino-4-hydroxybenzene, 4-hydroxyaniline
Harm score: 4 (Slightly harmful chemistry)
p-Aminophenol, also known by the names para-aminophenol, 4-aminophenol, 1-Amino-4-hydroxybenzene or 4-hydroxyaniline, is an organic compound with the molecular formula C6H7NO. This white crystalline substance dissolves readily in water and alcohol, but is less soluble in ether. It has a sweet taste and is not very stable, and exposure to air and light causes it to oxidize rapidly. p-Aminophenol is one of the three isomers of aminophenol.
The uses of p-aminophenol are wide ranging. The main use is the production of paracetamol, where p-aminophenol reacts with acetic acid. Paracetamol is one of the most widely sold prescription and non-prescription drugs, often used to treat pain and reduce fever. Another use is in photography, where it is used as a developing agent for black and white photographs. It is also used in industry for the production of paints and rubber.
In addition to its direct industrial use, p-aminophenol is also used as an intermediate in the production of more complex compounds for the pharmaceutical and chemical industries. It should be noted that p-aminophenol is toxic and can cause severe health problems if not handled properly. Therefore, its handling and use is also strictly regulated.