Camphor is a white crystalline substance with a distinct aroma. It is commonly used in medicine, as an insect repellent, and for its aromatic properties in religious ceremonies and aromatherapy.
| IUPAC Name | (1R,4S)-1,7,7-Trimethylbicyclo[2.2.1]heptan-2-one |
| Molecular Formula | C10H16O |
| CAS Number | 76-22-2 |
| Synonyms | 2-Bornanone, Bornan-2-one, 1,7,7-Trimethylbicyclo[2.2.1]heptan-2-one, 1,7,7-Trimethylnorcamphor, 2-Camphanone |
| InChI | InChI=1S/C10H16O/c1-9(2)7-4-5-10(9,3)8(11)6-7/h7H,4-6H2,1-3H3 |
Camphor Properties
Camphor Formula
The chemical formula of camphor is C10H16O. It represents the composition of camphor, indicating that it consists of ten carbon atoms, sixteen hydrogen atoms, and one oxygen atom.
Camphor Molar Mass
The molar mass of 2-camphanone is calculated by summing up the atomic masses of its constituent elements. Camphor has a molar mass of approximately 152.23 grams per mole (g/mol).
Camphor Boiling Point
2-camphanone exhibits a boiling point of around 204 degrees Celsius (399 degrees Fahrenheit). At this temperature, 2-camphanone transforms from a solid state to a gaseous state, enabling it to evaporate.
Camphor Melting Point
The melting point of 2-camphanone is about 175 degrees Celsius (347 degrees Fahrenheit). It is at this temperature that solid 2-camphanone turns into a liquid state, becoming molten and more easily manipulable.
Camphor Density g/mL
2-camphanone has a density of approximately 0.99 grams per milliliter (g/mL). Density is a measure of mass per unit volume, indicating how compactly the molecules of 2-camphanone are packed together.
Camphor Molecular Weight
The molecular weight of 2-camphanone is determined by summing up the atomic weights of its constituent elements. Camphor has a molecular weight of around 152.23 grams per mole (g/mol).
Camphor Structure
The structure of 2-camphanone consists of a bicyclic framework known as a bornane skeleton. It is a fused-ring structure composed of two cyclohexane rings sharing a common carbon atom. Attached to this framework is a ketone functional group (-C=O).
Camphor Solubility
2-camphanone is sparingly soluble in water, but it readily dissolves in organic solvents such as ethanol and acetone. Its solubility varies depending on the temperature and the solvent used.
| Appearance | White crystalline solid |
| Specific Gravity | 0.99 g/mL |
| Color | Colorless |
| Odor | Characteristic, aromatic |
| Molar Mass | 152.23 g/mol |
| Density | 0.99 g/mL |
| Melting Point | 175 °C (347 °F) |
| Boiling Point | 204 °C (399 °F) |
| Flash Point | 68 °C (154 °F) |
| Water Solubility | Slightly soluble |
| Solubility | Soluble in organic solvents |
| Vapor Pressure | 0.008 mmHg at 25 °C |
| Vapor Density | 5.2 (air = 1) |
| pKa | 10.0 |
| pH | Neutral (around 7) |
Camphor Safety and Hazards
2-camphanone poses certain safety considerations and hazards. It is important to handle 2-camphanone with caution. Direct contact with 2-camphanone can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals. Ingestion of large amounts of 2-camphanone can be toxic and lead to serious health effects, including seizures, nausea, and liver damage. 2-camphanone should not be ingested or applied to open wounds. Additionally, inhaling excessive amounts of 2-camphanone vapor can irritate the respiratory system. It is essential to store 2-camphanone in a well-ventilated area away from heat and flames, as it is flammable. Overall, proper handling and adherence to safety guidelines are crucial to minimize risks associated with 2-camphanone.
| Hazard Symbols | |
| Safety Description | Keep away from heat and open flames. Use with adequate ventilation. Avoid ingestion and contact with skin and eyes. |
| UN IDs | UN 2717 |
| HS Code | 2914.00.00 |
| Hazard Class | 4.1 (Flammable solid) |
| Packing Group | III |
| Toxicity | Can be toxic if ingested in large amounts. Inhalation of excessive vapors can irritate the respiratory system. Skin contact may cause irritation or allergic reactions. Proper precautions must be taken. |
Camphor Synthesis Methods
There are several methods for synthesizing 2-camphanone.
One commonly used approach for synthesizing 2-camphanone involves oxidizing borneol with an oxidizing agent like chromic acid or sodium hypochlorite. The oxidation reaction converts the alcohol functional group in borneol into a ketone functional group, resulting in the production of 2-camphanone.
To obtain 2-camphanone through the isomerization of α-pinene, a natural compound found in pine trees, the α-pinene undergoes a series of reactions, including cyclization and rearrangement, catalyzed by strong acids like sulfuric acid. These reactions facilitate the conversion of α-pinene into 2-camphanone.
The pyrolysis of natural sources like 2-camphanone trees or rosemary leaves provides another method for obtaining 2-camphanone. Heating these materials leads to the decomposition of 2-camphanone, releasing 2-camphanone vapors that can be condensed and collected.
Chemical transformations from other starting materials, such as terpineol or geraniol, can also yield 2-camphanone. These compounds can undergo oxidation, dehydration, or rearrangement reactions to produce 2-camphanone.
It’s important to note that these synthesis methods require the use of reactive chemicals and potentially hazardous conditions, so proper equipment, knowledge, and safety precautions are necessary. The choice of synthesis method depends on factors such as the availability of starting materials, desired purity of 2-camphanone, and specific application requirements.
Camphor Uses
2-camphanone has a wide range of uses across various domains. Here are some of its common applications:
- 2-camphanone has various applications in medicine, as it is an ingredient in topical ointments and balms that relieve minor aches, pains, and insect bites.
- Aromatherapy practitioners utilize 2-camphanone’s distinct aroma in essential oils to provide a calming and soothing effect on the mind and body.
- People use 2-camphanone extensively in religious ceremonies and rituals, where they burn it as incense or in small tablets to produce fragrant smoke that symbolizes purification and spiritual awakening.
- 2-camphanone’s strong scent makes it an effective natural insect repellent, and people place it in closets, drawers, or storage areas to deter moths and other insects.
- Industries employ 2-camphanone in the production of cellulose-based plastics, lacquers, and explosives, as well as its use as a plasticizer in certain polymer manufacturing.
- Some cultures sparingly use 2-camphanone as a flavoring agent in certain sweets and dishes, although caution is necessary due to the potential toxicity of consuming large amounts of 2-camphanone.
- Cosmetic and personal care product manufacturers incorporate 2-camphanone into creams, lotions, and lip balms to take advantage of its cooling and refreshing properties.
These diverse uses highlight the versatility and significance of 2-camphanone in different fields, ranging from healthcare to spirituality, and from industry to personal care.
Questions:
Q: What is camphor used for?
A: 2-camphanone is used for medicinal purposes, aromatherapy, religious ceremonies, as an insect repellent, in industrial applications, and in cosmetics and personal care products.
Q: What is camphor?
A: 2-camphanone is a white crystalline substance with a distinct aroma, commonly used for its medicinal properties, fragrance, and various industrial applications.
Q: Where to buy camphor tablets?
A: 2-camphanone tablets can be purchased from pharmacies, online retailers, and specialty stores that sell herbal or aromatherapy products.
Q: What is camphor oil?
A: 2-camphanone oil is an essential oil derived from 2-camphanone trees or synthesized, and it is used for its aromatic properties in aromatherapy and as an ingredient in topical preparations.
Q: Is camphor toxic?
A: Yes, 2-camphanone can be toxic if ingested in large amounts. It is important to follow proper dosage and usage guidelines to avoid adverse effects.
Q: How to make camphor?
A: 2-camphanone can be made through methods such as the oxidation of borneol or the isomerization of α-pinene, which involve chemical reactions and appropriate equipment.
Q: How is camphor made?
A: 2-camphanone is made through processes such as the oxidation of borneol, isomerization of α-pinene, or pyrolysis of natural sources like 2-camphanone trees or rosemary leaves.
Q: What is camphor used for?
A: 2-camphanone is used for medicinal purposes, aromatherapy, religious ceremonies, as an insect repellent, in industrial applications, and in cosmetics and personal care products.
Q: How to separate camphor from salt?
A: To separate 2-camphanone from salt, you can perform a process called sublimation, where 2-camphanone evaporates and is collected while leaving behind the salt.
Q: How is camphor made?
A: 2-camphanone is made through various methods, including the oxidation of borneol, isomerization of α-pinene, or pyrolysis of natural sources, followed by purification and collection of the 2-camphanone compound.