is a white, crystalline compound (C₆H₅OH) derived from benzene, used in the manufacture of phenolic resins, weed killers, plastics, disinfectants; also used in solvent extraction, a petroleum refining process. Phenol is a toxic material; skin contact must be avoided.

Also known under an older name of carbolic acid, is a toxic, colorless crystalline solid with a sweet tarry odor. Its chemical formula is C₆H₅OH and its structure is that of a hydroxyl group (-OH) bonded to a phenyl ring; it is thus an aromatic compound.