During the acid- or base-catalyzed polymerization of phenol and formaldehyde, the initial condensation steps produce a linear, soluble intermediate polymer called Novolac. What specific type of linkag

Question

During the acid- or base-catalyzed polymerization of phenol and formaldehyde, the initial condensation steps produce a linear, soluble intermediate polymer called Novolac. What specific type of linkage connects the adjacent phenolic rings in the Novolac structure?

Prashant Kotian · Accepted Answer

Correct answer: B. In the formation of Novolac, the intermediate ortho-hydroxymethylphenol undergoes condensation with another phenol molecule, eliminating a water molecule. This connects the aromatic phenolic rings directly via methylene () bridges at the ortho and para positions.

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