Which of the following reactions are given by Phenols?

(A) Nitration
(B) Halogenation
(C) Oxidation
(D) Acetylation

Choose the correct answer from the options given above:

(A), (B), (C) and (D)

The correct answer is Option (3) → (A), (B), (C) and (D)

Phenol contains a hydroxyl group (–OH) attached directly to a benzene ring. The –OH group shows a strong +M (electron donating) effect, which activates the benzene ring towards electrophilic substitution reactions.

Because of this activation, phenols undergo several important reactions.

Nitration

Phenols easily undergo nitration due to the activating effect of the –OH group.

Example:

Phenol + dilute HNO₃ → o-nitrophenol and p-nitrophenol

With concentrated nitric acid, 2,4,6-trinitrophenol (picric acid) is formed.

Thus, phenols undergo nitration.

Halogenation

Phenols react readily with halogens such as bromine.

Example:

Phenol + Brâ‚‚ (in water) → 2,4,6-tribromophenol

Thus, phenols undergo halogenation.

Oxidation

Phenols can be oxidized to quinones using oxidizing agents.

Example:

Phenol → p-benzoquinone

Thus, phenols undergo oxidation reactions.

Acetylation

Phenols react with acid chlorides or acid anhydrides to form esters.

Example:

Phenol + Acetic anhydride → Phenyl acetate

Thus, phenols also undergo acetylation.