Question

Which is major product obtained on treating phenol, with bromine in $C{S}_2$?

• A. p-bromophenol
• B. o-bromophenol
• C. 2,4,6-tribromophenol
• D. (a) and (b) above.

Answer 1

The correct option is A p-bromophenol

The reaction of phenol with bromine is known as bromination of phenol.
Solvent has great influence on the reaction. In different solvents, different products are obtained. The action of bromine on phenol can be explained as:
(i) Reaction with bromine in water: Phenol reacts with bromine water to give 2,4,6-tribromophenol.

(ii) Reaction with bromine in $C{S}_2$: Phenol reacts with bromine in a presence of Carbon disulphide to form a mixture of o-bromophenol and p-bromophenol.
Phenol reacts with bromine in a presence of Carbon disulphide to form a mixture of o-bromophenol and p-bromophenol. Among which p-bromophenol is major. In $C{S}_2$ ionisation is not facilitated that much. As it is a non-polar solvent it doesn't the $B{r}^{+}$ on. Also −OH group is moderately o, p-directing. So as usual para-product is more formed.