4-Hydroxypyridine is an organic compound with the molecular formula C5H5NO, characterized by a hydroxyl group (-OH) attached to the fourth position of a pyridine ring. It appears as a yellowish crystalline solid and is soluble in water and polar organic solvents. This compound is notable for its role as a versatile building block in organic synthesis due to its reactive functional groups. 4-Hydroxypyridine is utilized in various applications, particularly in pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and chemical research, owing to its ability to participate in diverse chemical reactions.