- naphthol
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/naf"thawl, -thol, nap"-/, n. Chem.either of two isomeric hydroxyl derivatives, C10H7OH, of naphthalene (alpha-naphthol or 1-naphthol and beta-naphthol or 2-naphthol), white or yellowish crystals, with a phenolic odor, that darken on exposure to light: used chiefly in dyes, drugs, perfumes, and insecticides. Also called hydroxynaphthalene.[1840-50; NAPHTH- + -OL1]
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either of two colourless, crystalline organic compounds derived from naphthalene and belonging to the phenol family; each has the molecular formula C10H7OH. Both compounds have long been identified with the manufacture of dyes and dye intermediates; they also have important uses in other areas of the chemical industry.The compound 1-naphthol, or α-naphthol, made by heating 1-naphthalenesulfonic acid with caustic alkali or by heating 1-naphthylamine with water under pressure, is used directly in making several dyes, and large amounts of it are converted to compounds ultimately incorporated into other dyes.The compound 2-naphthol, or β-naphthol, is regarded as the most important chemical intermediate based on naphthalene. It is manufactured by fusing 2-naphthalenesulfonic acid with caustic soda and is converted into numerous dyes and dye intermediates, as well as into tanning agents, antioxidants, and antiseptics. It has been shown to be carcinogenic.* * *
Universalium. 2010.
