Question

Identify the product obtained when phenol is treated with bromine water.

• A. p–Bromophenol
• B. m–Bromophenol
• C. 2,4,6–Tribromophenol
• D. o–Bromophenol

Hint:

Phenol gives tribromination with bromine water due to strong activating effect of –OH group.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understand the activating nature of phenol.
Phenol has a strongly activating –OH group which increases electron density at ortho and para positions.
Step 2: Reaction with bromine water.
Bromine water is a strong brominating agent. Phenol reacts readily without a catalyst.
Step 3: Formation of product.
Substitution occurs at all three activated positions (2, 4, and 6), forming a white precipitate.
Step 4: Conclusion.
The product formed is 2,4,6–tribromophenol.