The IUPAC name of Vanillin is 4-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzaldehyde.
Vanillin is a widely recognized organic compound, primarily known as the main component responsible for the distinctive aroma and flavor of vanilla. It is extensively used as a flavoring agent in various industries, including food, beverages, and fragrances, due to its characteristic sweet, creamy, and warm notes.
Understanding Vanillin's IUPAC Name
The IUPAC (International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry) naming convention provides a systematic way to identify chemical compounds based on their molecular structure. For Vanillin, the systematic name 4-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzaldehyde precisely describes the arrangement of its functional groups on a benzene ring:
- The core structure is benzaldehyde, indicating a benzene ring to which an aldehyde group (-CHO) is directly attached.
- A hydroxy group (-OH) is located at position 4 on the benzene ring, relative to the aldehyde group (which is implicitly at position 1).
- A methoxy group (-OCH₃) is positioned at position 3 on the benzene ring, adjacent to the aldehyde group.
This specific arrangement of functional groups is what gives Vanillin its unique chemical properties and sensory profile.
Key Chemical Identifiers for Vanillin
Beyond its IUPAC name, Vanillin has several alternative names and specific chemical identifiers that are important for its classification and study. These details are crucial for accurate communication in scientific and industrial contexts.
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| IUPAC Name | 4-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzaldehyde |
| Alternative Names | Vanillin, Vanillaldehyde, Vanillic aldehyde, 2-Methoxy-4-formylphenol, 4-Hydroxy-3-methoxybenzaldehyde |
| Molecular Formula | C₈H₈O₃ |
| Molar Mass | 152.149 g/mol |
Applications and Significance of Vanillin
Vanillin's well-defined chemical structure underpins its broad utility across various sectors:
- Food and Beverage Industry: It is a ubiquitous flavoring agent, enhancing the taste of countless products such as ice cream, chocolates, baked goods, and soft drinks.
- Fragrance and Cosmetics: Its pleasant aroma makes it a popular ingredient in perfumes, colognes, lotions, and other cosmetic formulations.
- Pharmaceutical and Chemical Synthesis: Vanillin serves as a valuable precursor in the synthesis of various pharmaceuticals and other fine chemicals.
For more detailed information regarding Vanillin's properties, synthesis, and applications, comprehensive chemical databases like PubChem offer extensive resources.
