Resorcinol, << rehz AWR suh nol, >> is a compound used in making ointments, dyes, and other useful chemical compounds. It is a colorless, crystalline phenol and is also known as metadihydroxybenzene. Resorcinol is prepared by fusing benzenedisulfonic acid with sodium hydroxide.
Resorcinol is added to ointments used to treat skin diseases such as acne and eczema. Hexylresorcinol is a general antiseptic. Chemists use resorcinol to make dyes such as eosin, a dye used in red ink. It is also important in the preparation of resins and adhesives.
