Explore the revolutionary antiseptic surgical techniques introduced by Dr. Joseph Lister, which utilized phenol to reduce infections. Understand phenol's structure, its importance in organic chemistry, and its distinctive chemical properties. Learn about phenolic compounds, their industrial applications, and the synthesis and reactions of phenol, highlighting its role in medical and chemical advancements.
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Phenol is an aromatic organic compound with a benzene ring bonded to a hydroxyl group
Dr. Joseph Lister's Contribution
Dr. Joseph Lister revolutionized surgical practice by introducing antiseptic procedures using phenol
Phenol as a Key Subject in Organic Chemistry
Phenol's structure makes it an important compound in the study of organic chemistry
Phenol's molecular formula, C6H5OH, reflects its structure of a benzene ring bonded to a hydroxyl group
The substitution of a hydrogen atom with a hydroxyl group in benzene's structure alters phenol's chemical reactivity
Phenol's polar hydroxyl group contributes to its moderate solubility in water and relatively high melting and boiling points
Phenol exhibits weak acidic behavior and its hydroxyl group influences the reactivity of the phenyl ring, directing electrophilic substitution reactions
Phenol can be synthesized from aniline through the formation of a diazonium salt, which is then decomposed to yield phenol
The Cumene process is the most efficient and economical method for large-scale production of phenol
The hydroxyl group in phenol can react with strong bases to form phenoxide ions or with active metals to release hydrogen
The phenyl group in phenol participates in electrophilic aromatic substitution reactions, such as nitration and halogenation, facilitated by the activating influence of the hydroxyl group