Cresotic Acid

Name:
Cresotic Acid
Detailed information:

Chemistry name:	cresotinic acid; hydroxytoluic acid
M Formula:	CH3C6H3(OH)COOH
Properties:
White crystals or powder. Mp 166 C, bp approximately 250 C. Partially soluble in hot water; soluble in alcohol and ether. Combustible.
Derivation:
Treatment of o-cresol with caustic and carbon dioxide under pressure.
Use:
Dye intermediate, research on plant growth inhibition.

Ten possible isomers; most common is 2-hydroxy-3-methylbenzoic acid, also known as o-cresotic acid or o-homosalicylic acid. The description that follows is of this isomer.