Question

What is the major product of bromination of anisole in ethanoic acid?

(a) o-Dibromobenzene

(b) p-Dibromobenzene

(c) o-Bromoanisole

(d) p-Bromoanisole

I had been asked this question in an interview for job.

I'm obligated to ask this question of Ethers topic in section Alcohols, Phenols and Ethers of Chemistry – Class 12

Answer 1

The correct option is (d) p-Bromoanisole

Explanation: Phenyl alkyl ethers undergo bromination in the benzene ring with bromine in ethanoic acid. This due to the activation of benzene ring by OCH3 group and its ortho, para directing effect. The para isomer is obtained in 90% yield.