Differentiate between: O-phenylenediamine and P-phenylenediamine?
**O-Phenylenediamine and P-Phenylenediamine: A Detailed Comparison**
**Introduction**
O-phenylenediamine and P-phenylenediamine are two isomers of the chemical compound phenylenediamine. They have similar chemical structures but differ in the arrangement of atoms within the molecule. In this response, we will explore the differences between O-phenylenediamine and P-phenylenediamine.
**Chemical Structure**
1. O-Phenylenediamine:
- In O-phenylenediamine, the two amino groups (-NH2) are positioned on adjacent carbon atoms.
- The amino groups are attached to the carbon atoms on opposite sides of the benzene ring.
- The structure can be represented as: NH2-C6H4-NH2
2. P-Phenylenediamine:
- In P-phenylenediamine, the two amino groups are positioned on opposite sides of the benzene ring.
- The amino groups are attached to the carbon atoms on opposite positions of the benzene ring.
- The structure can be represented as: NH2-C6H4-NH2
**Isomerism**
1. O-Phenylenediamine:
- O-phenylenediamine is an example of ortho-isomerism, where the functional groups are attached to adjacent carbon atoms on the benzene ring.
- The ortho-isomer has a higher melting point compared to the para-isomer.
- It exhibits different chemical properties compared to the para-isomer.
2. P-Phenylenediamine:
- P-phenylenediamine is an example of para-isomerism, where the functional groups are attached to opposite carbon atoms on the benzene ring.
- The para-isomer has a lower melting point compared to the ortho-isomer.
- It exhibits different chemical properties compared to the ortho-isomer.
**Physical Properties**
1. O-Phenylenediamine:
- O-phenylenediamine appears as a white to slightly yellow crystalline powder.
- It has a melting point of around 101-102 °C.
- It is sparingly soluble in water but soluble in organic solvents like ethanol and ether.
2. P-Phenylenediamine:
- P-phenylenediamine appears as a white to slightly reddish crystalline powder.
- It has a melting point of around 140-143 °C.
- It is sparingly soluble in water but soluble in organic solvents like ethanol and ether.
**Uses**
1. O-Phenylenediamine:
- O-phenylenediamine is commonly used as a precursor in the synthesis of dyes, pigments, and hair dyes.
- It is also used in the production of rubber chemicals and pharmaceuticals.
2. P-Phenylenediamine:
- P-phenylenediamine is widely used as a colorant in hair dyes and cosmetic products.
- It is also used in the manufacturing of rubber chemicals and as a component in photographic developers.
**Conclusion**
In summary, O-phenylenediam