Reactions of Alcohols
Cleavage of C-O Bond
Alcohols undergo a number of reactions involving the cleavage of C−O bond. We have already discussed such reactions in preparation of haloalkanes from alcohols. These reactions with required product (i.e., without by-products) are given in the table below for quick revision. For details, refer to preparation of haloalkanes from alcohols.
Reaction with zinc dust
Phenol (not alcohol) is reduced to benzene when it is distilled with zinc dust.
Conversions
Convert n-propyl alcohol to hexane
Convert phenol to toluene