Phthalide
# Phthalide

Phthalide is an organic chemical compound with the molecular formula $C_8H_6O_2.$ It is a white solid and the simplest benzo lactone. It is prepared from hydroxymethylbenzoic acid.

## Phthalides

The phthalide core is found a variety of more complex chemical compounds including dyes (such as phenolphthalein), fungicides (such as tetrachlorophthalide, often referred to simply as "phthalide"), and natural oils (such as butylphthalide).

## Examples

* Phenolphthalein
* Tetrachlorophthalide
* Butylphthalide
