Question

Why do we add BF3 in Sulfonation reactions?

(a) Completes the reaction

(b) Forward the reaction

(c) Removes water

(d) All of the mentioned

This question was posed to me in a job interview.

Origin of the question is Physical and Chemical Factors in division Sulfonation and Sulfation of Unit Processes

Answer 1

The correct answer is (d) All of the mentioned

To explain: Sulfonation can also be completed by adding to the sulfonation mixture a material capable of reacting with the water formed, thereby removing it and allowing this reaction to go to completion. The introduction of BFa accomplishes this.