Bakelite is a product of reaction between

Options

A. formaldehyde and NaOH
B. phenol and methanal
C. aniline and urea
D. phenol and chloroform.

Answer

To determine the reaction that produces Bakelite, we need to analyze the components involved in its synthesis. Bakelite is a type of phenolic resin, which is formed through the polymerization of phenol and formaldehyde. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the process:

### Step 1: Identify the Reactants
Bakelite is synthesized from phenol and formaldehyde.

### Step 2: Reaction in Acidic Medium
The reaction typically occurs in an acidic medium. In this medium, formaldehyde acts as an electrophile. The hydroxyl group (–OH) of phenol can protonate under acidic conditions, making the carbon atom of formaldehyde more electrophilic.

### Step 3: Formation of the Electrophile
In acidic conditions, the oxygen of formaldehyde can donate a lone pair to a hydrogen ion (H⁺), which leads to the formation of a more reactive electrophile.

### Step 4: Electrophilic Attack
The phenol can then undergo electrophilic substitution where the electrophile (from formaldehyde) attacks the aromatic ring of phenol. This can occur at the ortho or para positions relative to the hydroxyl group.

### Step 5: Polymerization
The product of the initial reaction is a phenol-formaldehyde resin. This intermediate can undergo further reactions, leading to polymerization. The polymerization process involves the reaction of multiple phenol and formaldehyde units, forming a three-dimensional network structure.

### Step 6: Final Product
The final product, Bakelite, is a thermosetting polymer characterized by its hardness and heat resistance. It is formed when the polymerization process is complete, resulting in a rigid structure.

### Summary
Bakelite is produced from the reaction between phenol and formaldehyde, typically in an acidic medium, leading to polymerization and the formation of a thermosetting resin.

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