1.

Ortho and para isomers of nitrophenol can be separated by ________ distillation.(a) fractional(b) steam(c) vacuum(d) zoneThe question was posed to me during an interview.My doubt is from Alcohols and Phenols in section Alcohols, Phenols and Ethers of Chemistry – Class 12

Answer»

The correct answer is (b) STEAM

Best explanation: o-Nitrophenol is steam volatile due to intramolecular hydrogen bonding between O of NITRO group and H of hydroxyl group. On the other hand, p-Nitrophenol is present as associated MOLECULES due to intermolecular hydrogen bonding, thus making it less volatile. Hence, a mixture of both can be SEPARATED by steam distillation.



Discussion

No Comment Found

Related InterviewSolutions