Question

When Phenol is distilled with $Zn$-dust , it gives:
A. benzaldehyde
B. benzoic acid
C. toluene
D. benzene

Answer 1

Hint: Phenol is an aromatic compound. It is a very useful organic compound. It is slightly acidic in nature and we should try to handle it with safety precautions because it can cause several chemical burns.

Complete step by step answer:
When the phenol is distilled with $Zn$-dust at a slightly higher temperature, the phenol is converted to phenoxide ion and a proton. After this step the proton accepts an electron from the metal $Zn$ due to which the proton converts to a $H$ radical and $ZnO$ is formed. The phenoxide ions get converted into benzene. So from the above explanation it is clear to us that when Phenol is distilled with $Zn$-dust , it gives benzene .

So the correct answer of the given question is : D. benzene.

Additional information:
 It is important to know the fact that benzene is an aromatic compound. It’s molecular formula is ${C_6}{H_6}$. It is made up of only carbon and hydrogen so it is also a hydrocarbon . It is harmful to human beings because it can cause cancer to us. So benzene is said to be a carcinogen compound according to studies and research. Benzene is a volatile compound. Benzene has a sweet, gasoline like odour. Benzene is soluble in alcohol , acetone , acetic acid, chloroform, carbon tetrachloride and diethyl ether.

Note:
It is important to remember that benzene and phenol both are aromatic in nature. Phenol is slightly acidic in nature. According to studies it is proved that benzene can cause cancer in human beings. Whenever Phenol is distilled with $Zn$-dust , benzene is formed.