Question

convert phenol to benzene sulphonic acid​

Answer 1

In this process, benzene sulfonic acid is reacted with aqueous sodium hydroxide. The resulting salt is mixed with solid sodium hydroxide and fused at a high temperature. The product of this reaction is sodium phenoxide, which is acidified with aqueous acid to yield phenol.

Answer 2

Phenol can be converted into benzene sulphonic acid​ by following step of reactions -

(i) React phenol with zinc dust ( Zn ) , benzene is formed .

(ii) React benzene with oleum , benzene sulphonic acid​ is formed .

• Benzene sulphonic acid forms white deliquescent sheet crystals that are soluble in water and ethyl alcohol .
• The aqueous solution of benzene sulphonic acid is strongly acidic in nature .