Benzoyl chloride, also known as benzoyl chloride or chlorobenzoyl, is an organic compound with the chemical formula C7H5ClO. Here are its key chemical properties:

1. Physical State and Solubility: Benzoyl chloride is a colorless, fuming liquid. It is soluble in ethers, chloroform, benzene, and carbon disulfide.
2. Stability: Benzoyl chloride is stable under normal conditions. However, it should be avoided from contact with strong oxidants, strong bases, alcohols, and water, as it may react dangerously with these substances, producing hazardous decomposition products such as hydrogen chloride and phosgene.
3. Reactivity: It can undergo various chemical reactions due to the presence of the acyl chloride group (-COCl). For example, it can undergo nucleophilic substitution reactions with alcohols, amines, and other nucleophiles to form esters, amides, and other derivatives.
4. Flammability: Benzoyl chloride is a flammable liquid. It has a flash point of 72.2°C and a spontaneous ignition temperature of 185°C. Therefore, it should be kept away from flames and heat sources to prevent ignition.
5. Toxicity and Hazards: Benzoyl chloride is toxic and can cause severe skin burns and eye damage upon contact. It may also cause skin allergies. Inhalation of benzoyl chloride can be harmful. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified benzoyl chloride in Group 3, indicating that there is insufficient evidence to classify its carcinogenicity to humans.

In summary, benzoyl chloride is a colorless, fuming, and flammable liquid with specific solubility and reactivity. It should be handled with caution to avoid contact with skin, eyes, and inhalation, and appropriate protective measures should be taken during use.