SUMMARY
The reaction between phenol (PhOH) and iron(III) chloride (FeCl3) results in the formation of a violet complex, specifically iron(III) phenolate, represented by the chemical equation FeCl3 + 3PhOH ----> Fe(O-Ph)3. This reaction is commonly known as the iron chloride test for phenolic compounds. The formation of the violet complex serves as a qualitative indicator for the presence of phenol groups in a sample.
PREREQUISITES
- Chemical structure of phenol
- Understanding of coordination chemistry
- Knowledge of iron(III) chloride properties
- Familiarity with colorimetric tests in organic chemistry
NEXT STEPS
- Study the mechanism of phenol and FeCl3 reaction
- Explore other colorimetric tests for phenolic compounds
- Research the applications of iron(III) phenolate in analytical chemistry
- Learn about the significance of coordination complexes in organic reactions
USEFUL FOR
Chemistry students, organic chemists, laboratory technicians, and anyone involved in qualitative analysis of phenolic compounds.