Question

Picric acid and benzoic acid can be distinguished by :

• A. their reaction with sodium carbonate
• B. their reaction towards litmus solution
• C. their reaction towards $FeC{l}_3$ solution
• D. none of the above

Answer 1

The correct option is C their reaction towards $FeC{l}_3$ solution

Picric acid and benzoic acid can be distinguished by their reaction towards $FeC{l}_3$ solution.
Picric acid contains three strong electron withdrawing nitro groups which deactivate the ring, so that the electrophilic substitution is not possible.
Benzoic acid on halogenation with $FeC{l}_3$ solution gives m-chlorobenzoic acid.