4-Methylimidazole

• CAT Number: R056548
• CAS Number: 822-36-6
• Molecular Formula: C4H6N2
• Molecular Weight: 82.11
• Purity: ≥95%
• Synonyms: 4(5)-Methylimidazole; 5-Methyl-1H-imidazole; 4(or 5)-Methylimidazole; 4-Methyl-1H-imidazole; 4-Methylimidazole; 5-Methylimidazole; NSC 40744
• Storage: Desiccate at -20C
• IUPAC Name: 5-methyl-1H-imidazole
• InChI: InChI=1S/C4H6N2/c1-4-2-5-3-6-4/h2-3H,1H3,(H,5,6)
• InChIKey: XLSZMDLNRCVEIJ-UHFFFAOYSA-N
• SMILES: CC1=CN=CN1

4-Methylimidazole (Cat No.:R056548) is a heterocyclic organic compound with the molecular formula C₄H₆N₂, featuring a five-membered imidazole ring substituted with a methyl group at the 4-position. It appears as a colorless to light yellow crystalline solid and is used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, dyes, and corrosion inhibitors. 4-MEI is also a byproduct formed during the manufacturing of certain caramel colorings and ammoniated food ingredients. It has drawn regulatory attention due to potential toxicological concerns, particularly in food and beverage contexts, prompting studies on exposure and health impact.