What is the Difference Between Benzene and Benzoate?
🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚Benzene and benzoate are two related chemical compounds with some differences:
- Benzene: This is an organic compound with the chemical formula C6H6, having a six-membered ring structure with all members being carbon atoms. Each carbon atom is attached to a hydrogen atom, making it a hydrocarbon. Benzene is a highly volatile and hazardous liquid, and it is banned from use in cosmetics.
- Benzoate: Benzoate is the conjugate base of benzoic acid and has a benzene ring with one proton. It is the simplest member of the class of benzoates and can be found as the conjugate base of benzoic acid. Sodium benzoate is a salt of benzoic acid that is found naturally in cranberries, prunes, plums, apples, and other fruits. It is used in a wide variety of cosmetics and personal care products as a fragrance ingredient and preservative.
In some cases, benzene can form in foods and drinks that contain both sodium benzoate and vitamin C (ascorbic acid). This is particularly true for diet beverages, as the sugar in regular sodas and fruit drinks may reduce benzene formation. However, in cosmetic products with a high concentration of vitamin C and a low concentration of sodium benzoate, benzene does not form at all. Overall, sodium benzoate is considered safe for use in cosmetics and personal care products when manufactured and used according to safe practices.
Comparative Table: Benzene vs Benzoate
Benzene and benzoate are two related chemical compounds, but they have distinct differences. Here is a summary of their differences in a tabular form:
Property | Benzene | Benzoate |
---|---|---|
Chemical Formula | C6H6 | C6H5O2^(-) |
Structure | Six-membered ring with only carbon and hydrogen atoms | Benzene ring with one proton replaced by a hydroxyl group |
Type | Organic compound with a single ring structure | Conjugate base of benzoic acid, a salt or ester of benzoic acid |
Occurrence | Naturally occurs as a constituent of crude oil | Not found in crude oil, but can be derived from benzoic acid |
Uses | Mainly used as a precursor in the production of various compounds, including phenol, aniline, and styrene | Mainly used as a food additive, in the form of sodium benzoate, to preserve food and prevent mold growth |
In summary, benzene is an organic compound with the chemical formula C6H6, consisting of a six-membered ring structure with only carbon and hydrogen atoms. Benzoate, on the other hand, is the conjugate base of benzoic acid and has a benzene ring with one proton replaced by a hydroxyl group[^1^].
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