naphthol

naphthol, either of two colourless, crystalline organic compounds derived from naphthalene and belonging to the phenol family; each has the molecular formula C₁₀H₇OH. Both compounds have long been identified with the manufacture of dyes and dye intermediates; they also have important uses in other areas of the chemical industry. The compound 1-naphthol, or α-naphthol, made by heating 1-naphthalenesulfonic acid with caustic alkali or by heating 1-naphthylamine with water under pressure, is used directly in making...