Difference in reaction of phenol with bromine in chloroform vs water is due to:

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Canvas Classes · Accepted Answer

Step 1: Reaction of Phenol with Bromine
- In Water: Phenol is highly activated and undergoes tri-substitution to form 2,4,6-tribromophenol. Water helps in ionizing phenol to phenoxide ion (strong activator).
- In Chloroform/: Phenol acts as a weak activator (low ionization), leading to mono-substitution (o- and p-bromophenol).

Step 2: Conclusion
The difference is primarily due to the polarity of the solvent, which influences the ionization of the substrate into the phenoxide ion.

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