Quick Answer: Yes - methoxybenzene and anisole are the same chemical compound. Anisole is the common name, while methoxybenzene is the systematic IUPAC name. Both refer to the aromatic ether with molecular formula C₇H₈O and CAS Number 100-66-3.
Is Methoxybenzene the Same as Anisole?
There is no chemical difference between methoxybenzene and anisole - they describe the exact same molecule. The confusion usually comes from the fact that one compound can carry multiple valid names, depending on the naming convention being used:
- Anisole - the traditional/common name, widely used in industry, fragrance, and commercial trade
- Methoxybenzene - the systematic IUPAC name, used in academic literature and regulatory documentation
- Methyl phenyl ether - another common alternative name seen in older chemical literature and some safety data sheets
- All three names point to the same aromatic ether, identified by CAS Number 100-66-3, with identical molecular structure, physical properties, and safety profile.
Why Does This Naming Confusion Happen?
Many organic compounds pick up more than one name over time. A "common name" often develops first - usually tied to the compound's natural source, smell, or early industrial use - while a "systematic name" is assigned later according to IUPAC nomenclature rules, which describe the molecule's structure directly.
In the case of anisole, the name comes from Pimpinella anisum (the anise plant), reflecting its characteristic anise-like odor. Methoxybenzene, on the other hand, describes the structure precisely: a benzene ring with a methoxy (–OCH₃) group attached. Regulatory filings, SDS documents, customs declarations, and academic papers will often default to the IUPAC name (methoxybenzene) for precision, while commercial catalogs, trade listings, and fragrance formulations tend to use anisole. Buyers sourcing this material should treat both names as interchangeable when checking supplier catalogs, and should always confirm CAS 100-66-3 to avoid any ambiguity.
Methoxybenzene vs Anisole: Comparison Table
| Item | Methoxybenzene | Anisole |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical identity | Same compound | Same compound |
| Chemical formula | C₇H₈O | C₇H₈O |
| CAS Number | 100-66-3 | 100-66-3 |
| Chemical class | Aromatic ether | Aromatic ether |
| Naming type | Systematic (IUPAC) name | Common/trade name |
| Typical usage context | Academic, regulatory, safety documentation | Industrial, commercial, fragrance trade |
Anisole Physical & Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Name | Anisole (Methoxybenzene) |
| Other Names | Methyl phenyl ether |
| CAS Number | 100-66-3 |
| Molecular Formula | C₇H₈O |
| Molecular Weight | 108.14 g/mol |
| Appearance | Colorless to pale yellow liquid |
| Odor | Sweet, anisic (licorice-like) |
| Density (20°C) | ~0.995 g/cm³ |
| Boiling Point | 154°C |
| Melting Point | −37°C |
| Solubility | Slightly soluble in water; miscible with most organic solvents |
Industrial Applications of Anisole
1. Pharmaceutical Intermediate Anisole is used as a starting material or intermediate in the synthesis of aromatic compounds for pharmaceutical chemistry, including select active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) building blocks. Its methoxy group provides a useful reactive site for further functionalization in multi-step organic synthesis routes, making it a common building block in fine chemical and API manufacturing processes.
2. Fragrance Industry Due to its sweet, anisic (licorice-like) odor, anisole is a common component in fragrance and flavor formulations. It is used both as a standalone note and as a precursor for synthesizing more complex aroma compounds, and is valued in perfumery for its stability and consistent scent profile across batches.
3. Agrochemical Production Anisole serves as an intermediate in the manufacture of certain pesticides, herbicides, and specialty agrochemical compounds, where its aromatic ether structure supports further chemical modification into active ingredients.
4. Organic Solvent Its chemical stability, moderate boiling point (154°C), and compatibility with a wide range of organic reactions make anisole a useful solvent choice in organic synthesis, particularly in reactions requiring a non-nucleophilic, aprotic environment.
5. Research & Laboratory Use Beyond industrial-scale manufacturing, anisole is also widely used in academic and laboratory research settings as a model aromatic ether compound for studying electrophilic aromatic substitution reactions and other structure-reactivity relationships.
Handling and Storage Considerations
Anisole is a combustible liquid and should be stored in tightly sealed containers, away from open flame, sparks, and strong oxidizing agents. It is typically stored at room temperature in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, and standard industrial handling practices call for chemical-resistant gloves, eye protection, and adequate ventilation during transfer or mixing operations. As with most aromatic solvents, prolonged skin contact and inhalation of vapors should be avoided, and full handling guidance should always be reviewed in the current Safety Data Sheet (SDS) before use.
For international shipment, anisole is commonly transported in sealed steel drums or ISO tanks, and buyers should request updated compliance documentation (SDS, COA) for their destination market prior to import, as classification and labeling requirements can vary by region.
About Methoxybenzene (Anisole) Supply
Tianjin Gnee Biotech Co., Ltd. supplies industrial-grade Methoxybenzene / Anisole (CAS 100-66-3) for pharmaceutical intermediates, fragrance formulations, agrochemical synthesis, and organic solvent applications. Contact us for technical specifications, COA, SDS, packaging options, and bulk quotations.
FAQs
Is methoxybenzene the same as anisole?
Yes. Methoxybenzene and anisole are two names for the same chemical compound (CAS 100-66-3).
What is another name for anisole?
Anisole is also known as methyl phenyl ether and methoxybenzene.
What is anisole used for?
Anisole is mainly used in fragrance production, pharmaceutical synthesis, agrochemical intermediates, and as an organic solvent.
What is the molecular formula of anisole?
Anisole has the molecular formula C₇H₈O, with a molecular weight of 108.14 g/mol.
Is anisole a common name or an IUPAC name?
Anisole is the common/trade name. Its systematic IUPAC name is methoxybenzene.
