Which are the sources of phenol?

Options

A. Cumene
B. Hydrolysis of benzene diazonium salt
C. Middle oil of coal tar distilation
D. Reaction of diazonium salt with `H_(3)PO_(2)`

Explanation

To answer the question "Which are the sources of phenol?", we can break down the sources into three main categories based on the information provided:

### Step 1: Identify the Sources
The sources of phenol include:
1. **Cumene**
2. **Benzene diazonium fluoride**
3. **Coal tar distillation (middle oil)**

### Step 2: Explain Each Source
1. **Cumene**:
- Cumene (isopropylbenzene) is a significant source of phenol.
- The process involves the oxidation of cumene followed by acidic hydrolysis.
- The reaction can be summarized as:
- **Oxidation of Cumene**: Cumene is oxidized to form cumene hydroperoxide.
- **Acidic Hydrolysis**: The hydroperoxide is then subjected to acidic hydrolysis, yielding phenol and acetone.

2. **Benzene Diazonium Fluoride**:
- This compound can be hydrolyzed to produce phenol.
- The reaction involves adding water to benzene diazonium fluoride, resulting in phenol, nitrogen gas, and hydrochloric acid (HCl).

3. **Coal Tar Distillation**:
- During the distillation of coal tar, various fractions are obtained, including a middle oil layer.
- This middle oil contains several aromatic compounds, including phenol, which can be extracted.

### Step 3: Conclusion
Based on the above explanations, the sources of phenol are:
- **A. Cumene**
- **B. Benzene diazonium fluoride**
- **C. Middle oil from coal tar distillation**

### Final Answer:
The sources of phenol are **Cumene**, **Benzene diazonium fluoride**, and **Middle oil from coal tar distillation**.

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