Alcohols, Phenols and Ethers notes
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Alcohols, Phenols and Ethers: One-Page Formula Sheet
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Last updated: 26 October 2026
Formula sheet
Alcohols, Phenols and Ethers formulas
Alcohols, Phenols and Ethers — formula sheet
Formulas
- Reimer–Tiemann: phenol + CHCl₃/NaOH → salicylaldehyde
- Kolbe: phenoxide + CO₂ → salicylic acid
- Williamson synthesis: RO⁻ + R′X → ROR′
- Acidity: p-nitrophenol > phenol > cresol
Key ideas
- Phenol is acidic due to resonance stabilisation of phenoxide
- Lucas test distinguishes 1°, 2° and 3° alcohols
- Ethers are cleaved by HI
- Electron-withdrawing groups increase phenol acidity
Traps to avoid
- Using Williamson with tertiary halides
- Wrong order of phenol acidity
- Mixing Lucas test speeds
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FAQs
Frequently asked questions
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