Trihydric Alcohols
Glycerol or glycerine, CH2OH – CH( OH)- CH2OH is the first member of this group. Its IUPAC name is propane-l, 2,3-triol.
Method of Preparation It is obtained as a by product in saponification reaction.
Physical Properties 1. It is a colourless, odourless, viscous and hygroscopic liquid.
2. It is sweet in taste and steam volatile. 3. It is soluble in water but insoluble in ether. 4. Due to excessive H-bonding, it is highly viscous and has high boiling point.
Chemical Properties
It gives all the general reactions given by-OR group but 2 ° OR is less reactive as compared to 1 °.
Some of its specific reactions are: