Structure of anisole derivatives by total neutron and X-ray scattering: Evidences of weak C–H⋯O and C–H⋯π interactions in the liquid state

High resolution, total neutron and X-ray scattering data have been used in synergy with Molecular Dynamics simulations to access atomistic scale insight into the structure of anisole and 2,3,5-trimethylanisole, two aromatic compounds bearing an electron-donating methoxy group. A detailed description is provided for the main interactions occurring in these systems, including π-π stacking and weak hydrogen bonding correlations: C–H⋯O and C–H⋯π. The existence of preferential orientations of the first shell coordinating molecules and the specific nature of the interactions involving the π cloud and the polar methoxy group have been reported and discussed.