Question

Explain the Kolbe's reactions of phenol.

Answer 1

Answer:

Reaction of phenol with NaOH and CO2 to form salicylic acid is known as Kolbe's Reaction.

Explanation:

In this reaction phenol reacts with NaOH to form sodium phenoxide. Phenoxide ion is better ortho para director than phenol. Hence CO2 attacks at ortho position of phenol and hence further sodium salt of salicylic acid is obtained, which on acidification forms salicylic acid.