79706

Methyl 3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)propionate, often known as a methyl ester, emerges from a chemical reaction where the carboxylic acid group in phloretic acid combines with methanol. This compound is notable for its dual functional roles in agriculture and environmental management. Firstly, it acts as a nitrification inhibitor, a type of compound that slows down the process of nitrification in the soil. This is important for controlling nitrogen levels and preventing excess nitrogen from leaching into water bodies, which can lead to environmental issues like eutrophication. Methyl 3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)propionate serves as a plant growth regulator. These substances are crucial in the management and modification of plant growth patterns, including the regulation of plant hormones and other growth-related processes. This makes it a valuable tool in agriculture for optimizing plant development and yield. Chemically, this compound belongs to a category known as phenols, characterized by a hydroxyl group (-OH) attached to an aromatic hydrocarbon group. Its structure includes a methyl ester group, indicative of its formation from an esterification reaction, where an acid reacts with an alcohol, in this case, phloretic acid with methanol. Furthermore, Methyl 3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)propionate is functionally related to phloretic acid. Phloretic acid itself is a naturally occurring compound found in certain plants, and its derivatives, including Methyl 3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)propionate, often retain some of the biological activities of the parent compound. This relationship suggests potential for diverse applications in fields like biochemistry and agriculture, especially in developing new agricultural chemicals that can enhance plant growth and protect environmental quality.

GHS Hazard Statements

H315 (100%): Causes skin irritation [Warning Skin corrosion/irritation]

H319 (100%): Causes serious eye irritation [Warning Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

H335 (100%): May cause respiratory irritation [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure; Respiratory tract irritation]

Chemical and Physical Properties

Computed Properties

Source: PubChem