Industrial organics — The compound with formula (CH3·C6H4)3PO4 is known as:

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: tricresyl phosphate

Explanation:


Introduction:
Recognizing chemical names from condensed formulas is a common test of industrial chemistry literacy. The notation (CH3·C6H4) indicates a cresyl (methylphenyl) group, and three such groups bonded to phosphate yield a well-known plasticizer and flame retardant additive.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • (CH3·C6H4) denotes a cresyl group (o-, m- or p- isomers).
  • Three aryl groups attach to a phosphate center (PO4).
  • Inorganic phosphate fertilizers have different stoichiometry and are solids of calcium phosphate salts.


Concept / Approach:

Tricresyl phosphate (TCP) is an aryl phosphate ester derived from cresols. Its general formula can be written as (cresyl)3PO4, matching (CH3·C6H4)3PO4. By contrast, triple superphosphate/superphosphate and fluorapatite are inorganic calcium phosphate materials and do not have aryl groups. Triphenyl phosphate would be (C6H5)3PO4, lacking the methyl substituents present in cresyl groups.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Parse the formula: three cresyl groups attached to phosphate.Map to compound name: tricresyl phosphate.Eliminate inorganic fertilizers and the phenyl (not cresyl) analogue.Answer: tricresyl phosphate.


Verification / Alternative check:

Industrial datasheets list TCP as (cresyl)3PO4; TPP is (phenyl)3PO4, confirming the naming distinction.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

A/D/C: Inorganic calcium phosphate fertilizers/minerals, not aryl phosphates. E: Triphenyl phosphate lacks methyl substituents on the phenyl rings.


Common Pitfalls:

Overlooking that fertilizer names with 'superphosphate' refer to calcium phosphate salts, not organophosphates.


Final Answer:

tricresyl phosphate

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