
Benzal Chloride: Properties, Production and Uses
Benzal chloride (C6H5CHCl2) is a colorless liquid that is synthesized by chlorinating the side chain of toluene. It is also known as dichloromethylbenzene, α,α-dichlorotoluene, or benzylidene chloride. The first synthesis of benzal chloride was reported in 1848 by A. Cahours, who reacted benzaldehyde with phosphorus pentachloride (PCl5).