What is Thiophene-2-ethanol and what are its uses?
Thiophene-2-ethanol, also known as 2-thiophenethanol, is a chemical compound with the formula C6H5SH, derived from thiophene. It is commonly used as a reagent in organic synthesis and as a building block for various pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals.

What are the key properties of Thiophene-2-ethanol?
Thiophene-2-ethanol is a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a sharp, sulfurous odor. It is soluble in most organic solvents and exhibits mild acidity due to the presence of the sulfur atom. The compound has a boiling point of approximately 169 °C and a density of around 1.09 g/cm3.

How is Thiophene-2-ethanol typically synthesized?
Thiophene-2-ethanol is commonly prepared by the reaction of thiophene with an alkali metal hydroxide followed by hydration of the resulting thiophenol intermediate. The compound can also be synthesized through various other methods, including Grignard reactions and thiol-ene additions.

What are the main applications of Thiophene-2-ethanol?
Thiophene-2-ethanol is widely used in the pharmaceutical industry as a key intermediate in the synthesis of various drugs and active pharmaceutical ingredients. It is also utilized in the production of agrochemicals, dyes, fragrances, and other fine chemicals. Additionally, the compound has applications in materials science and as a corrosion inhibitor in various industries.

Are there any safety precautions to consider when handling Thiophene-2-ethanol?
Thiophene-2-ethanol should be handled with care as it is a flammable liquid and can cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract upon contact. Proper personal protective equipment, such as gloves and goggles, should be worn when working with the compound. It should be stored in a cool, well-ventilated area away from sources of ignition and incompatible materials.