Phenol + FeCl3 Reaction: Distinguish 4-Methylbenzoic Acid

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SUMMARY

The reaction of phenol with iron(III) chloride (FeCl3) produces a violet coloration, which is a characteristic test for phenolic compounds. 4-Methylphenol, also known as p-cresol, will similarly yield a violet coloration when reacted with FeCl3, indicating its phenolic nature. However, 4-methylbenzoic acid, being a carboxylic acid, will not produce the same reaction, allowing for differentiation between the two compounds. This test is effective for distinguishing phenols from carboxylic acids.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of phenolic compounds and their reactions
  • Knowledge of iron(III) chloride (FeCl3) as a reagent
  • Familiarity with the structural differences between phenols and carboxylic acids
  • Basic principles of organic chemistry testing methods
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the mechanism of the FeCl3 test for phenols
  • Learn about the structural characteristics of 4-methylphenol and 4-methylbenzoic acid
  • Explore other reagents that can differentiate between phenols and carboxylic acids
  • Study the significance of colorimetric tests in organic chemistry
USEFUL FOR

Chemistry students, organic chemists, and laboratory technicians seeking to understand the differentiation of phenolic compounds and carboxylic acids through chemical testing.

chiral
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phenol + FeCl3..help!

:confused: :confused: please help me... :frown:
phenol gives a violet coloration when we add FeCl3, but will 4-methylphenol gives a violet coloration?!? :confused:
n is it possible to distinguish 4-methylbenzoic acid from 4-methylphenol by adding FeCl3? :confused:
sorry for my poor english :-p
 
Last edited:
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The test is fairly specific for phenols, thus I'm thinking that the methyl phenol will also test positive; not all phenols test positive however. Yes, this test will distinguish between phenols and acids.

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thx a lot... :biggrin: :biggrin: :biggrin: :biggrin: :biggrin:
 

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