Phenacetin (CAS: 62-44-2) is a crystalline compound with a long history in chemical and pharmaceutical research. Although it was once used in medicine, today phenacetin is primarily supplied as a laboratory reagent. At CristalChem, phenacetin is available as a high-purity crystalline powder for educational demonstrations, crystallisation studies, and analytical chemistry.
CristalChem provides Phenacetin Powder – buy online with guaranteed purity and SDS.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Formula | C10H13NO2 |
| CAS | 62-44-2 |
| Molecular weight | 179.22 g/mol |
| Appearance | White crystalline solid |
| Melting point | 133–136 °C |
Phenacetin in Educational Laboratories
Researchers frequently use phenacetin to teach crystallisation and melting point analysis. For example, students recrystallise the compound and measure its melting point before and after purification. As a result, they can clearly observe how impurities lower the sharpness of melting.
Comparative studies with paracetamol
Phenacetin is closely related to Paracetamol – crystalline compound. In addition, both substances provide an excellent way to demonstrate structure–property relationships. Therefore, laboratory comparisons of phenacetin and paracetamol remain a common academic exercise.
Analytical chemistry
Scientists employ phenacetin as a reference standard in chromatography and spectroscopy. Moreover, its consistent melting point makes it ideal for instrument calibration.
Experiments & Tips
🧪 Classic experiment: Recrystallise phenacetin from ethanol. Students actively compare crude and purified samples. In this way, they understand how purification improves crystal quality.
💡 Fact: Phenacetin first appeared in the late 19th century. Since then, it has remained a model compound for laboratory research.
💡 Lab tip: Handle phenacetin under a fume hood with gloves. Consequently, the risks of exposure remain minimal during educational use.
Chemical Research Writer at CristalChem Academy. Passionate about chemistry, R&D, and turning laboratory insights into global wellness and industrial innovations.
