Phenol
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Phenol:-
Phenol is a hydroxylic derivative of benzene. It easily forms regular crystals (J S = 43° C) which turn red when exposed to air. It has a distinctive odour. Compared with other alcohols, phenol does not dissolve in water as readily. It does, however, mix with ethanol relatively easily. In an aqueous solution, phenol reacts significantly more acidicly than other alcohols. It is poisonous and corrosive.The hydroxyl group in a molecule of phenol is bonded to a carbon on the inner ring, so the systematic name of phenol is monohydroxybenzol. The electrons of the non-bonding electron pairs in the ring come into interaction with the electrons of the oxygen in the hydroxylic group, increasing the density of the electrons in the ring.
This phenomenon is known as the positive mesomeric effect (+M). The result of this effect is that the bonding electrons of the bondsbetween oxygen and hydrogen are more strongly attracted to the oxygen atom, making the bond between the two a polar one. This leads to the hydrogen atom of the hydroxyl group being easily dissociated, thus forming the phenyl ion. Because phenol is able to dissociate the proton on its hydroxyl group rather easily, is can be used in solution to indicate, or recognise, an acid. Phenol is one of the reactants used in the production of plastics, paints and coatings, and herbicides.
