Question

A mixture of $o$-nitrophenol and $p$-nitrophenol can be separated by

• A. fractional distillation
• B. sublimation
• C. chemical separation
• D. steam distillation

Answer 1

Answer: (D)

A mixture of $o$-nitrophenol and $p$-nitrophenol can be separated by steam distillation. $o$-nitrophenol is steam volatile due to intramolecular hydrogen bonding, whereas $p$-nitrophenol is less volatile due to intermolecular hydrogen bonding.