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M-xylene, also referred to as meta-xylene, is a chemical variant of xylene distinguished by the placement of methyl groups at the 1st and 3rd positions on a benzene ring. This specific structural arrangement, where the two methyl groups are positioned in a meta configuration, sets it apart from its isomers, o-xylene and p-xylene, which differ in the arrangement of their methyl groups. Despite these differences in structure, m-xylene, along with its isomers, shares the same chemical formula, C6H4(CH3)2. As an aromatic hydrocarbon, m-xylene is a member of the broader group of compounds known collectively as xylenes. These isomers, though structurally varied, all exhibit similar physical properties: they are colorless and exhibit a high degree of flammability. The 'm-' prefix in m-xylene stands for 'meta-', indicating the specific pattern of arene substitution – a term referring to the way in which the methyl groups are attached to the benzene ring – that differentiates it from o-xylene (ortho-xylene) and p-xylene (para-xylene). This distinction is crucial in the chemical industry, as each isomer has unique properties and uses based on its molecular structure.

GHS Hazard Statements

• H226: Flammable liquid and vapor [Warning Flammable liquids]

• H312: Harmful in contact with skin [Warning Acute toxicity, dermal]

• H315: Causes skin irritation [Warning Skin corrosion/irritation]

• H332: Harmful if inhaled [Warning Acute toxicity, inhalation]

Chemical and Physical Properties

Computed Properties

Source: PubChem