Question

To distinguish between salicylic acid and phenol, one can
use :
(a) NaHCO₃ solution
(b) 5% NaOH solution
(c) neutral FeC₃
(d) bromine water

Answer 1

$\bf{\underline{\underline{Answer:}}}$

(a) NaHCO₃ solution

Answer 2

Dear Student,

◆ Answer -

(a) NaHCO₃ solution

● Explanation -

Salicylic acid on reaction with NaHCO3 gives CO2 effervescence.

salicylic acid + NaHCO3 --> sodium salicylate + CO2 + H2O

Phenol does NOT usually react with NaHCO3 because of its less acidity.

phenol + NaHCO3 --> No reaction

So, we can use sodium bicarbonate to chemically distinguish between phenol and salicylic acid.

Thanks dear. Hope this helps you...