Question

Identify the product formed when phenol reacts with bromine water.

• A. Bromobenzene
• B. 2,4,6-Tribromophenol
• C. Phenyl bromide
• D. Benzoic acid

Hint:

Phenol reacts with bromine water without any catalyst and forms a white precipitate of 2,4,6-tribromophenol.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Concept: Phenol strongly activates the benzene ring due to the presence of the \(-OH\) group. The \(-OH\) group is an electron-donating group and directs electrophilic substitution to the ortho and para positions of the benzene ring.

Step 1: Reaction of phenol with bromine water. When phenol reacts with bromine water, rapid electrophilic substitution occurs at the ortho and para positions. \[ \text{Phenol} + 3Br_2 \rightarrow 2,4,6\text{-Tribromophenol} + 3HBr \]

Step 2: Formation of product. Three bromine atoms substitute at the 2, 4, and 6 positions of the ring. Thus, the product formed is: \[ \boxed{2,4,6\text{-Tribromophenol}} \]