Reagents for the difference between benzyl alcohol and phenol

In the chemical industry, it is very important to distinguish between benzyl alcohol and phenol because of their significant differences in structure, properties and applications. Although benzyl alcohol and phenol are aromatic compounds, but their molecular structure and chemical properties are different, easy to be confused. Therefore, the selection of suitable reagents for identification is the key to distinguish between the two.

Selection of 1. reagents

in order to distinguish between benzyl alcohol and phenol, acidic potassium permanganate solution can be selected as a reagent. Potassium permanganate has strong oxidation under acidic conditions, which can oxidize phenol to dimethyl benzoate and show a specific color reaction.

Observation of 2. experimental phenomena

add the samples to be tested into the acidic potassium permanganate solution:

1. The experimental phenomenon of benzyl alcohol: benzyl alcohol does not color in acidic potassium permanganate solution, and the color of the solution has no obvious change. This is because the methanol group of benzyl alcohol cannot be oxidized, and its structure is stable, and it is not easy to react.

2. Phenol experimental phenomenon: phenol in acidic potassium permanganate solution will show a purple color reaction. The color of the solution changes light blue. This is because the hydroxyl group of phenol is oxidized to form dimethyl benzoate, and the structure of its oxidation product determines the occurrence of color reaction.

analysis of 3. results

the following conclusions can be drawn from the above experimental phenomena:

1. A sample with no color development and a colorless change in the solution was benzyl alcohol.

2. The sample that was purplish red and the color of the solution changed was phenol.

4. considerations

in the reagent identification, need to pay attention to the following points:

1. The concentration of reagents used must meet the experimental requirements to avoid deviation of experimental results due to improper concentration.

2. The acidic environment has an important influence on the stability of the reagent, and it should be ensured that the solution is under suitable acidic conditions.

3. Wear protective equipment when using reagents to avoid contact with skin or eyes to prevent accidents.

Through the above steps and methods, benzyl alcohol and phenol can be accurately distinguished to ensure that the identification of substances meets the standards and requirements.