Anisole

Anisole, or methoxybenzene, is an organic compound with the formula CH₃OC₆H₅. It is a colorless liquid with a smell reminiscent of anise seed, and in fact many of its derivatives are found in natural and artificial fragrances. The compound is mainly made synthetically and is a precursor to other synthetic compounds. It is an ether.

It can be prepared by the Williamson ether synthesis; sodium phenoxide is reacted with a methyl halide to yield anisole.

Anisole is a precursor to perfumes, insect pheromones, and pharmaceuticals. For example, synthetic anethole is prepared from anisole.