Chapter 23, Problem 22P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

A reasonable synthesis of $4\text{-nitrophenyl phenyl ether}$ from chlorobenzene and phenol has to be outlined.

Concept introduction:

Phenols contain hydroxyl $\left(\text{OH}\right)$ functional group attached to an aromatic ring. In the ring, the electron withdrawing groups (EWG) decrease the electron density, thereby stabilizing the phenoxide ion.

On the other hand, the electron donating groups (EDG) increase the electron density, thereby destabilizing the phenoxide ion.

Phenols undergo electrophilic aromatic substitution reaction due to the presence of the hydroxyl group that activates itself towards electrophilic substitution.

The hydroxyl group causes the resonance effect due to which the ortho and para positions of phenol ring become electron rich.