The Reimer-Tiemann reaction converts phenol to salicylaldehyde. What is the specific neutral, electr — Alcohols Phenols and Ethers Chemistry Question
Question
The Reimer-Tiemann reaction converts phenol to salicylaldehyde. What is the specific neutral, electron-deficient electrophile generated in situ that attacks the phenol ring?
Answer: B
💡 Solution & Explanation
In the Reimer-Tiemann reaction, the strong base ($NaOH$) deprotonates chloroform, followed by the alpha-elimination of a chloride ion to generate dichlorocarbene ($:CCl_2$). This neutral species acts as the active electrophile.
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