1-Butanol vs. Butanediol

Attribute	1-Butanol	Butanediol
Chemical Formula	C4H10O	C4H10O2
Structure	Linear	Linear
Functional Group	Alcohol	Diol
Boiling Point (°C)	117.7	235
Solubility in Water	Miscible	Miscible

Introduction

1-Butanol and butanediol are two important chemical compounds that are commonly used in various industries. While they may sound similar due to their names, they have distinct attributes that set them apart. In this article, we will compare the properties of 1-Butanol and butanediol to understand their differences and similarities.

Chemical Structure

1-Butanol, also known as n-butanol, is a four-carbon alcohol with the chemical formula C4H10O. It has a linear structure with a hydroxyl group attached to the first carbon atom. On the other hand, butanediol is a four-carbon diol with the chemical formula C4H10O2. It contains two hydroxyl groups attached to adjacent carbon atoms, giving it a branched structure.

Physical Properties

1-Butanol is a colorless liquid with a slightly sweet odor. It has a boiling point of 117.7°C and a density of 0.81 g/cm3. In contrast, butanediol is also a colorless liquid but with a higher boiling point of 235°C and a density of 1.017 g/cm3. Due to their different structures, butanediol has a higher boiling point and density compared to 1-Butanol.

Applications

1-Butanol is commonly used as a solvent in various industries, including paint, coatings, and pharmaceuticals. It is also used in the production of plastics, textiles, and personal care products. On the other hand, butanediol is used as a precursor in the synthesis of polymers, such as polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) and polyurethanes. It is also used in the production of pharmaceuticals and cosmetics.

Biological Activity

1-Butanol is known to exhibit some level of toxicity in humans and animals when ingested or inhaled in large quantities. It can cause irritation to the respiratory tract and central nervous system. Butanediol, on the other hand, is considered to be less toxic and is used in some food and pharmaceutical applications. However, both compounds should be handled with care due to their potential health risks.

Solubility

1-Butanol is moderately soluble in water, with a solubility of 7.9 g/L at 20°C. It is more soluble in organic solvents such as ether and acetone. Butanediol, on the other hand, is highly soluble in water, with a solubility of 1,000 g/L at 20°C. It is also soluble in many organic solvents, making it a versatile compound for various applications.

Conclusion

In conclusion, 1-Butanol and butanediol are two important chemical compounds with distinct properties and applications. While 1-Butanol is commonly used as a solvent in various industries, butanediol is used as a precursor in polymer synthesis. Both compounds have different physical and chemical properties, making them suitable for specific applications. Understanding the differences between 1-Butanol and butanediol is essential for their proper use in various industries.