Question

Phenol on reaction with dilute nitric acid, gives two products. Which method will be most effective for large scale separation?

(A) Chromatographic separation

(B) Fractional Crystallisation

(C) Steam distillation

(D) Sublimation

Answer 1

Correct option is (C) Steam distillation

Para product has higher boiling point than ortho as intermolecular H-bond is possible in former, where as intramolecular H-bond is possible in ortho product.

Steam distillation can separate them as ortho product is steam volatile