NEETChemistryAlcohols Phenols and Ethers
What role does zinc dust play in the conversion of phenol to benzene?
Options
- AIt acts as a catalyst
- BIt provides oxygen for the reaction
- CIt reduces phenol to benzene
- DIt increases the reaction temperature
Correct answer
C. It reduces phenol to benzene
Step-by-step solution
Zinc dust acts as a reducing agent, converting phenol to benzene by removing oxygen from the phenol molecule.