Phenol reacts with which of the following give bakelite ?

Options

A. HCHO
B. `CH_(3)CHO`
C. `CH_(3) - underset(O)underset(||)(C)- CH_(3)`
D. `AlCl_(3)`

Answer

To determine which compound phenol reacts with to produce Bakelite, we can follow these steps:

### Step 1: Identify the Reactants
Phenol is the starting material we are considering. We need to identify the compound that reacts with phenol to form Bakelite.

**Hint:** Look for common reagents used in the synthesis of Bakelite.

### Step 2: Recognize the Role of Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde (HCHO) is a well-known reagent that reacts with phenol. When phenol reacts with formaldehyde, it forms an intermediate compound known as ortho- or para-hydroxy methyl phenol.

**Hint:** Think about the types of reactions that phenol undergoes with aldehydes.

### Step 3: Formation of Intermediate Product
The reaction between phenol and formaldehyde leads to the formation of an intermediate product, which is typically represented as:
\[ \text{C}_6\text{H}_5\text{OH} + \text{HCHO} \rightarrow \text{C}_6\text{H}_4(\text{OH})(\text{CH}_2\text{OH}) \]
This intermediate contains hydroxymethyl groups.

**Hint:** Consider the structural changes that occur when phenol reacts with formaldehyde.

### Step 4: Polymerization Process
When multiple molecules of the intermediate react, they undergo polymerization. During this process, water (H2O) is eliminated, leading to the formation of a linear polymer.

**Hint:** Remember that polymerization often involves the loss of small molecules like water.

### Step 5: Cross-linking to Form Bakelite
Upon heating the linear polymer with additional formaldehyde, cross-linking occurs, resulting in the formation of Bakelite. Bakelite is a thermosetting polymer characterized by its rigid structure.

**Hint:** Think about how heat and additional reagents can change the structure of polymers.

### Conclusion
The compound that phenol reacts with to produce Bakelite is **formaldehyde (HCHO)**.

**Final Answer:** Phenol reacts with formaldehyde to give Bakelite.