4-Methoxybenzofuran-3(2H)-one: Properties, Handling & Lab Guide

4-Methoxybenzofuran-3(2H)-one is a methoxy-substituted benzofuranone heterocycle of interest in organic synthesis and medicinal chemistry research as a versatile building block.

IUPAC Name

4-Methoxybenzofuran-3(2H)-one

Molecular Formula

C9H8O3

Molecular Weight

164.16 g/mol

Compound Class

Benzofuranone (oxygen-containing heterocycle)

Aladdin SKU

M698549

Recommended Storage

Cool, dry, well-ventilated area; away from light and moisture

Chemical Identity and Structure

4-Methoxybenzofuran-3(2H)-one belongs to the benzofuranone family of heterocyclic compounds. Its core structure consists of a benzene ring fused to a five-membered lactone ring containing an oxygen atom, with a methoxy (–OCH₃) substituent at the 4-position and a ketone carbonyl at the 3-position. This substitution pattern imparts distinct electronic and steric properties relative to unsubstituted benzofuran-3(2H)-one, influencing its reactivity in condensation, cyclization, and nucleophilic addition reactions commonly employed in synthetic organic chemistry.

The compound is also referenced in the context of wheat-derived natural product analogs (internal reference: M895047), suggesting relevance to phytochemical and agrochemical research programs. Its molecular formula is C₉H₈O₃ with a molecular weight of approximately 164.16 g/mol.

Physicochemical Properties and Purity Considerations

As a solid aromatic lactone, 4-Methoxybenzofuran-3(2H)-one is expected to display moderate polarity due to the combined influence of the lactone carbonyl and the methoxy donor group. Researchers should consult the certificate of analysis (CoA) supplied with each batch of SKU M698549 for verified purity, melting point, and spectroscopic data (¹H NMR, ¹³C NMR, MS) specific to the lot received.

Solubility is anticipated in common organic solvents such as dichloromethane, ethyl acetate, acetone, and DMSO; aqueous solubility is expected to be limited. When preparing stock solutions for biological assays, DMSO is a practical choice, and researchers should account for final DMSO concentration in assay media to avoid cytotoxic artifact.

Always verify purity specifications against project requirements before use. For synthetic applications requiring high enantiopurity or defined stereochemistry, additional characterization may be necessary.

Safe Handling, Storage, and Disposal

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): When handling 4-Methoxybenzofuran-3(2H)-one, wear appropriate PPE including nitrile gloves, a laboratory coat, and safety spectacles. Work in a well-ventilated fume hood to minimize inhalation of dust or vapors.

Storage: Store the compound in a tightly sealed container in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, away from direct light, heat sources, and moisture. Keep away from incompatible materials such as strong oxidizers and strong bases. Adhere to the storage conditions specified on the product label and CoA.

Disposal: Dispose of waste material in accordance with local, national, and institutional regulations governing chemical waste. Do not pour down the drain. Consult your institution's Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) office for guidance on approved disposal routes for heterocyclic organic compounds.

First Aid: In case of skin or eye contact, rinse immediately with copious amounts of water. If inhaled, move the affected person to fresh air. Seek medical attention for persistent symptoms. Consult the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for complete hazard information.

Research Applications and Synthetic Utility

4-Methoxybenzofuran-3(2H)-one serves as a valuable intermediate or scaffold in medicinal chemistry and natural product synthesis. The electron-donating methoxy group at the 4-position activates the aromatic ring toward electrophilic aromatic substitution and can influence the compound's interaction with biological targets. The reactive lactone and adjacent methylene (–CH₂–) unit at the 2-position provide handles for Knoevenagel condensations, aldol-type reactions, and further functionalization.

Benzofuranone scaffolds appear in a range of biologically active natural products and drug candidates; the methoxy variant may be relevant in programs targeting enzyme inhibition, antioxidant activity, or phytochemical analog synthesis. Researchers working with wheat-derived secondary metabolites may find this compound particularly relevant as a reference or synthetic standard.

Consult primary literature and internal project protocols before committing to large-scale synthesis routes based on this building block. Verify compatibility with downstream reagents and reaction conditions specific to your application.

Ordering, Quality, and Technical Support

4-Methoxybenzofuran-3(2H)-one is available from Aladdin Scientific under SKU M698549. Each shipment is accompanied by a Certificate of Analysis detailing purity, appearance, and analytical characterization data. Researchers are encouraged to review the CoA upon receipt and retain it for laboratory records and regulatory compliance purposes.

For questions regarding specifications, available quantities, custom synthesis inquiries, or bulk pricing, contact Aladdin Scientific's technical support or sales team directly. Procurement teams should reference SKU M698549 in all purchase orders to ensure accurate fulfillment.

If you require a Safety Data Sheet (SDS), purity certificates for a specific lot, or additional technical documentation, these are available upon request through the Aladdin Scientific product portal or customer service channels.

Frequently asked questions

What is the molecular formula and molecular weight of 4-Methoxybenzofuran-3(2H)-one?

4-Methoxybenzofuran-3(2H)-one has the molecular formula C₉H₈O₃ and a molecular weight of approximately 164.16 g/mol. These values should be confirmed against the Certificate of Analysis provided with each batch from Aladdin Scientific (SKU M698549).

In which solvents does 4-Methoxybenzofuran-3(2H)-one dissolve readily?

Based on its structure as a moderately polar aromatic lactone, 4-Methoxybenzofuran-3(2H)-one is expected to dissolve readily in common organic solvents such as dichloromethane, ethyl acetate, acetone, and DMSO. Aqueous solubility is expected to be low. Experimental solubility data should be determined by the researcher for specific application conditions.

How should 4-Methoxybenzofuran-3(2H)-one be stored to maintain stability?

The compound should be stored in a tightly sealed container in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area, away from direct light, moisture, heat, and strong oxidizing agents. Always follow the storage conditions specified on the product label and Certificate of Analysis. Consult the SDS for full stability and incompatibility information.

What research areas is 4-Methoxybenzofuran-3(2H)-one relevant to?

This compound is relevant to organic synthesis, medicinal chemistry, and phytochemical research, particularly as a building block or reference standard. Its benzofuranone scaffold and methoxy substituent make it useful for constructing analogs of biologically active natural products, and it has noted relevance in wheat-related secondary metabolite studies.

How do I obtain a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) or Certificate of Analysis for SKU M698549?

Safety Data Sheets and Certificates of Analysis for 4-Methoxybenzofuran-3(2H)-one (SKU M698549) are available through the Aladdin Scientific product portal or by contacting customer service directly. Lot-specific CoAs can be requested by providing your lot number to the technical support team.

References

1. Aladdin Scientific. Product Information: 4-Methoxybenzofuran-3(2H)-one, SKU M698549. Aladdin Scientific internal product documentation.
2. March, J. Advanced Organic Chemistry: Reactions, Mechanisms, and Structure. 4th ed. Wiley-Interscience, 1992. (General reference for benzofuranone reactivity and lactone chemistry.)
3. Clayden, J.; Greeves, N.; Warren, S. Organic Chemistry. 2nd ed. Oxford University Press, 2012. (Textbook-level reference for heterocyclic compound properties and handling.)

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