The product of the Reimer-Tiemann reaction is amixture of `o-`hydroxybenzaldehyde (major product) and `p-hydroxy-benzaldehyde (minor product). The constituents of the mixture are best separated by

Options

A. crystallization
B. distillation
C. Steam distillation
D. sublimation

Answer

C

Explanation

On account of intramolecular hydrogen bonding, o-hydroxybenzaldehyde is sparingly soluble in water and possesses low vapor pressure. Being steam volatile, it can be separated effectively from its isomer by steam distillation.