NEETChemistryAlcohols Phenols and Ethers
What is the purpose of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) in the Reimer-Tiemann reaction?
Options
- ATo act as a reducing agent
- BTo provide a source of chlorine atoms
- CTo neutralise the reaction mixture
- DTo deprotonate phenol
Correct answer
D. To deprotonate phenol
Step-by-step solution
Sodium hydroxide is used to deprotonate phenol, making it more reactive towards chloroform in the Reimer-Tiemann reaction.