2-Methylcyclohexanone (CAS 583-60-8)

2-Methylcyclohexanone, also referred to as 2-methylcyclohexanol, is an organic compound of significant utility in diverse scientific applications. It presents as a colorless liquid with a gentle aroma and exhibits insolubility in water. Within the realm of scientific research, 2-methylcyclohexanone assumes a multifaceted role. It serves as a valuable reagent for synthesizing a wide array of compounds. Furthermore, it functions as a pivotal starting material for the synthesis of heterocyclic compounds like pyridines, quinolines, and indoles. Notably, 2-methylcyclohexanone has also proven instrumental in synthesizing various organometallic compounds, such as palladium complexes. As a highly reactive compound, 2-methylcyclohexanone is amenable to a range of reactions. The most prevalent reaction involves acid-catalyzed dehydration of cyclohexene and cyclohexanone, leading to the formation of 2-methylcyclohexanone and 2-methylcyclohexanol. This reaction is typically conducted at temperatures around 80-90°C and yields a mixture of 2-methylcyclohexanone and 2-methylcyclohexanol. Other reactions that 2-methylcyclohexanone can undergo include nucleophilic substitution, hydrogenation, and oxidation.