Consider the Kolbe-Schmidt reaction of phenol. Which of the following specific conditions, intermedi — Alcohols Phenols and Ethers Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

The Kolbe-Schmidt reaction enhances the nucleophilicity of phenol by converting it to sodium phenoxide. It is then subjected to an electrophilic attack by $CO_2$ under specific conditions ($125^\circ\text{C}$, $5\text{ atm}$). The subsequent acidification protonates the carboxylate salt to yield 2-hydroxybenzoic acid as the major ortho product.