Question:

A solution of phenol in chloroform when treated with aqueous NaOH gives compound P as a major product. The mass percentage of carbon in P is ______. (to the nearest integer)
(Atomic mass : C = 12; H = 1; O = 16)

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Phenol + \(\mathrm{CHCl_3}\) + aq. NaOH is the Reimer-Tiemann reaction, giving salicylaldehyde (\(\mathrm{C_7H_6O_2}\)) as the major product.
Updated On: Nov 5, 2026
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Correct Answer: 69

Solution and Explanation

Phenol with \(\mathrm{CHCl_3}\) and aqueous NaOH undergoes the Reimer-Tiemann reaction (dichlorocarbene \(:\mathrm{CCl_2}\) attacks the ortho position of the phenoxide). After hydrolysis the major product P is o-hydroxybenzaldehyde (salicylaldehyde), \(\mathrm{C_7H_6O_2}\).
Molar mass = \(7\times12 + 6\times1 + 2\times16 = 84 + 6 + 32 = 122\).
Mass % of C = \(\frac{84}{122}\times100 = 68.85\approx 69\).
Answer: 69
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