Question

Which reagent converts phenol into salicylaldehyde?

• A. Reimer-Tiemann reagent
• B. Tollen's reagent
• C. Fehling solution
• D. Lucas reagent

Hint:

Remember: \[ Phenol \xrightarrow[NaOH]{CHCl_3} Salicylaldehyde \] This reaction is asked repeatedly in CUET and Boards.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Concept: Phenol reacts with chloroform and aqueous sodium hydroxide to produce salicylaldehyde. This reaction is known as: \[ \text{Reimer-Tiemann Reaction} \]

Step 1: Write reagents.
\[ Phenol + CHCl_3 + NaOH \]

Step 2: Formation of dichlorocarbene.
Chloroform generates: \[ :CCl_2 \] which attacks the activated benzene ring.

Step 3: Formation of salicylaldehyde.
The major product obtained is: \[ o-\text{Hydroxybenzaldehyde} \] commonly called salicylaldehyde. Thus: \[ \boxed{\text{Reimer-Tiemann Reagent}} \]