monoterpene

chemical compound

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June 30, 2026

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Monoterpenes are a class of chemical compounds derived from two isoprene units, resulting in a formula of C₁₀H₁₆. They are volatile oils, less dense than water, and are typically isolated from plant matter through steam distillation.12

Monoterpenes are found in essential oils and have various applications. For example, citronellal and geraniol are used in perfumes and flavorings. Limonene, a major component of citrus oils, is also a monoterpene. Alpha-pinene, a primary component of turpentine, is important in the chemical industry for producing resins and other products. Menthol, derived from monoterpenes, is widely used in flavorings and medicinal preparations.2

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isoprenoid
Monoterpenes
The monoterpenes are isolated from their natural sources by distillation of the plant matter with steam. They are volatile oils, less dense than water, and have normal boiling points in the range of 150 to 185 °C (300 to 365 °F). Purification is usually…
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The monoterpenes are isolated from their natural sources by distillation of the plant matter with steam. They are volatile oils, less dense than water, and have normal boiling points in the range of 150 to 185 °C (300 to 365 °F). Purification is usually…
Read More

isoprenoid
Structural features of isoprenoids
…with the structures of the monoterpenes, the molecules of which contain 10 carbon atoms. However, as those structural patterns became familiar and techniques for investigation were developed, attention was turned increasingly toward those isoprenoids containing 15 to 40 carbon atoms. In 1887, German chemist Otto Wallach recognized that a fundamental…
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…with the structures of the monoterpenes, the molecules of which contain 10 carbon atoms. However, as those structural patterns became familiar and techniques for investigation were developed, attention was turned increasingly toward those isoprenoids containing 15 to 40 carbon atoms. In 1887, German chemist Otto Wallach recognized that a fundamental…
Read More