Formula C8H8O2 Molar mass 136.15 g/mol Melting point 0 °C | Density 1.12 g/cm³ Boiling point 248 °C | |
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4-Anisaldehyde (also: p-anisaldehyde, anisic aldehyde, anise aldehyde) is an organic compound that is commonly encountered in fragrances, both synthetic and natural. The compound consists of a benzene ring with an aldehyde and a methoxy group. It is a clear liquid with a strong aroma. Two related isomers, ortho-anisaldehyde and meta-anisaldehyde, are also known but less commonly encountered. It provides sweet, floral and strong aniseed odor.
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Production
Anisaldehyde is prepared commercially by oxidation of methoxytoluene (p-cresyl methyl ether) using manganese dioxide. It can also be produced by oxidation of anethole, a related fragrance that is found in some alcoholic beverages.
Uses
Being structurally related to vanillin, anisaldehyde is a widely used in the fragrance and flavor industry. Anisaldehyde is used as an intermediate in the synthesis of other compounds important in pharmaceuticals and perfumery. ortho-Anisaldehyde has a scent of licorice.
A solution of para-anisaldehyde in acid and ethanol is a useful stain in thin layer chromatography. Different chemical compounds on the plate can give different colors, allowing easy distinction.
Drugs
Drugs made from 4-Anisaldehyde include:
- PMA & PMMA
- Dasantafil
- Tomoxiprole
- Benzestrol
- Meobentine (via p-methoxybenzylamine made via reduction of the oxime).
