noun
- A long-chain aliphatic alcohol derived from chlorophyll, used in the synthesis of vitamin K and other organic compounds.
Usage: chemistry; biochemistry
Examples
- Phytol is a key precursor in the industrial synthesis of vitamin K.
- The breakdown of chlorophyll releases phytol as one of its components.
- Researchers use phytol in the production of various pharmaceutical compounds.
- Phytol's long hydrocarbon chain makes it useful in organic synthesis.