1,4-Benzoquinone, commonly known as
para-quinone, is a
chemical compound with the
formula C
6H
4O
2. In a pure state, it forms bright-yellow crystals with a characteristic irritating odor, resembling that of
chlorine,
bleach, and hot plastic. This six-membered ring compound is the oxidized derivative of 1,4-
hydroquinone. The molecule is multifunctional: it exhibits properties of a
ketone, forming an
oxime; an oxidant, forming the dihydroxy derivative; and an alkene, undergoing addition reactions, especially those typical for
a,ß-unsaturated ketones. 1,4-Benzoquinone is sensitive toward both strong mineral acids and alkali, which cause condensation and decomposition of the compound.