Toluene

Toluene (C₇H₇) is a hydrocarbon which is derived from benzene (q.v.) by the replacement of one of the hydrogen atoms by the group CH₂. It is a liquid which in most of its properties closely resembles benzene. It boils at 110°, and has a specific gravity 0.88. By oxidation it is converted into benzoic acid. It occurs in, and is chiefly obtained from coal-tar, and is also a product of the distillation of Tolu Balsam and other aromatic compounds.