What is the mechanism involved behind conversion of phenol to benzene using Zinc dust?

Answer 1

Zn shows an oxidation state of +2. The phenol gets converted into phenoxide ion and proton thus released accepts an electron from Zn forming H radical. Also because of the heating there is homolytic fission of C of phenyl ring and O- The O- thus formed accepts an electron Zn and forms oxide ion. In this way zinc forms zinc oxide and phenyl radical thus produced forms a bond with H radical.

However, the yield of this reaction (used for benzene formation is lower) because of formation of hydrogen gas and biphenyl prompltly.

Answer 2

Zinc dust reduces phenol to benzene by donating electrons to the oxygen atom in phenol, forming a radical intermediate. This intermediate undergoes a rearrangement reaction, resulting in the formation of benzene. The zinc dust acts as a reducing agent in this process.

Answer 3

Zinc dust reduces phenol to benzene by donating electrons to the oxygen atom in phenol, forming a radical intermediate. This intermediate undergoes a rearrangement reaction, resulting in the formation of benzene. The zinc dust acts as a reducing agent in this process.