phenol

(fē′nōl″ )

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1. C6H5OH; a crystalline colorless or light pink solid, melting at 109°F (43°C), obtained from the distillation of coal tar. It has a characteristic odor and is dangerous because of its rapid corrosive action on tissues.

PATIENT CARE
Buffered solutions of phenol are used as skin peels to treat sun-damaged skin.
SYN: SEE: carbolic acid

2. Any of the aromatic derivatives of benzene with one or more hydroxyl groups attached.

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