Question

While separating a mixture of ortho and para nitrophenols by steam distillation, name the isomer which will be steam volatile. Give reason.

Answer 1

The ortho and para isomers can be separated by steam distillation. o-Nitrophenol is steam volatile due to intramolecular hydrogen bonding, while p-nitrophenol is less volatile due to intermolecular hydrogen bonding, which causes the association of molecules.