Explain the action of conc. `H_(2)SO_(4)` at 373 K on phenol (carbolic acid).

Explanation

To explain the action of concentrated sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) at 373 K on phenol (carbolic acid), we can break down the process into several steps:

### Step 1: Understanding the Reactants
Phenol (C₆H₅OH) is an aromatic compound with a hydroxyl (-OH) group attached to a benzene ring. When phenol is treated with concentrated sulfuric acid, a sulfonation reaction occurs.

**Hint:** Identify the functional groups present in phenol and the properties of concentrated sulfuric acid.

### Step 2: Reaction Mechanism
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