Skip to main content
alpha-naphthol

alpha-naphthol

9.9
A chemical used to make dyes and to test for sugars in labs
  • noun
  • /ˈæl.fə ˈnæf.θɒl/
  • Specialized
translation icon : alfa-naftol
  • In laboratory tests, alpha-naphthol is commonly used as a reagent to detect the presence of sugars.

Examples

  • The production of azo dyes often requires alpha-naphthol as a starting material.

  • In biochemistry, alpha-naphthol plays a crucial role in the Molisch test for carbohydrates.

  • The laboratory used alpha-naphthol in their experiments.

  • Is alpha-naphthol safe for use in dyes?

  • In laboratory tests, alpha-naphthol is commonly used as a reagent to detect the presence of sugars.

  • In biochemistry, alpha-naphthol plays a crucial role in the Molisch test for carbohydrates.

  • The production of azo dyes often requires alpha-naphthol as a starting material.

Synonyms

naphthol
vsalpha-naphthol
  • Specialized
9.9

One of two solid chemicals made from naphthalene and used to make dyes

is one specific isomer used for dye making and as a reagent

Surface Forms

Morphology

alpha-naphthol = naphthol (transparent) = alpha + naphthol

The prefix 'alpha' marks a positional isomer, so the word straightforwardly names a specific kind of naphthol.

Etymology

Alpha-naphthol combines alpha, the Greek letter meaning 'first', with naphthol, a chemical name built from naphtha, an old word for 'oil', and the ending -ol as in alcohol. So alpha-naphthol literally means the 'first' form of this oil-related chemical, which fits its use as a particular reagent for making dyes and testing for sugars.