Give two reactions that show the acidic nature of phenol. Compare the acidity of phenol with that of ethanol

Phenol is more acidic than ethanol due to the presence of the phenyl group. Here are two reactions that show the acidic nature of phenol:

1. Reaction with Sodium: Phenol reacts with sodium to form sodium phenoxide and hydrogen gas. This reaction shows the acidic nature of phenol as it is able to donate a proton (H+) to sodium.

   Phenol + Na -> Sodium phenoxide + H2

2. Reaction with Sodium Hydroxide: Phenol also reacts with bases like sodium hydroxide to form salt and water, which is a characteristic reaction of acids.

   Phenol + NaOH -> Sodium phenoxide + H2O

In comparison to ethanol, phenol is more acidic. This is because after losing a proton, phenol forms a phenoxide ion which is stabilized by resonance. The negative charge on the oxygen atom is delocalized over the entire phenyl ring, reducing the charge density on the oxygen atom. This makes it easier for phenol to lose a proton and act as an acid.

On the other hand, the ethoxide ion formed after ethanol loses a proton is not stabilized by resonance. The negative charge is localized on the oxygen atom, making it less likely for ethanol to lose a proton and act as an acid. Therefore, phenol is more acidic than ethanol.