noun
- A colorless crystalline organic compound (C₆H₄(OH)₂) derived from coal tar or synthesized, used in photography, dyes, and pharmaceuticals.
Usage: chemistry; also called pyrocatechol or 1,2-dihydroxybenzene
Examples
- Catechol is an important intermediate in the synthesis of various dyes and pigments.
- The laboratory used catechol as a reducing agent in photographic development.
- Catechol derivatives are found in some plants and have antioxidant properties.
- Industrial production of catechol often involves the oxidation of benzene or phenol.
- Researchers studied catechol's role in pharmaceutical manufacturing processes.