Q43 / 150 · MHT CET 2025 (26 Apr Shift 1) · Chemistry

Which from following compounds is obtained when phenol reacts with dilute nitric acid at low temperature?

  • A
    o-Nitrophenol only
  • B
    p-Nitrophenol only
  • C
    2,4,6-trinitrophenol
  • Correct answer
    D
    Mixture of ortho and para nitrophenols

Solution

Phenol undergoes electrophilic aromatic substitution with dilute nitric acid at low temperature. The hydroxyl group activates the ring and directs substitution to ortho and para positions.

$\text{Phenol} + \text{Dilute HNO}_3 \xrightarrow{\text{Low temperature}} \text{o-Nitrophenol} + \text{p-Nitrophenol}$

Mild conditions prevent further nitration. Option A and B are incomplete, while Option C requires concentrated nitric acid. The correct product mixture corresponds to Option D.

The final answer is $\boxed{\text{D}}$.

Hence, the correct answer is option: 'D'.

Relevant Questions