Question:medium

What is the product of the reaction between Phenol and concentrated \(HNO_3\)?

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Phenol is highly activated due to the \(-OH\) group, so strong nitration with concentrated \(HNO_3\) produces picric acid (2,4,6-trinitrophenol).
Updated On: Apr 22, 2026
  • Nitrobenzene
  • Picric Acid (2,4,6-trinitrophenol)
  • Aniline
  • Benzaldehyde
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The question asks for the major product formed when Phenol reacts with a concentrated mixture of nitric acid.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
1. Phenol possesses an \( -OH \) group, which is a powerful activating group and an ortho/para director due to resonance.
2. When dilute \( HNO_3 \) is used at low temperatures, a mixture of o-nitrophenol and p-nitrophenol is obtained.
3. However, when concentrated \( HNO_3 \) is used (often in the presence of concentrated \( H_2SO_4 \)), the nitration is vigorous.
4. All available ortho and para positions (2, 4, and 6) are substituted by nitro (\( -NO_2 \)) groups.
5. The resulting molecule is 2,4,6-trinitrophenol, commonly known as Picric Acid.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The reaction of phenol with concentrated \( HNO_3 \) yields Picric Acid.
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