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Phenol Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge

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Study Guide: Phenol: Properties, Production, and Applications

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Phenol: Properties, Production, and Applications Study Guide

Chemical Identity and Properties

Phenol is exclusively identified by the common name 'carbolic acid'.

Answer: False

Explanation: The source indicates that while 'carbolic acid' is a common name, phenol also has other designations such as 'benzenol' and 'phenolic acid'.

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Phenol's molecular formula is C6H6O, and it exists as a white crystalline solid.

Answer: True

Explanation: Phenol is characterized by the molecular formula C6H6O and presents as a white crystalline solid that is volatile and flammable.

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A phenol molecule consists of a hydroxyl group attached to an aliphatic carbon chain.

Answer: False

Explanation: A phenol molecule is characterized by a hydroxyl group directly bonded to an aromatic ring, not an aliphatic carbon chain.

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Phenol is significantly more acidic than typical aliphatic alcohols.

Answer: True

Explanation: Phenol exhibits a notably higher acidity compared to typical aliphatic alcohols, primarily due to the resonance stabilization of its conjugate base.

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The CAS Registry Number for phenol is 108-95-2.

Answer: True

Explanation: The Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS) Registry Number assigned to phenol is 108-95-2.

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The systematic IUPAC name for phenol is 'hydroxybenzene'.

Answer: False

Explanation: The preferred IUPAC name is 'Phenol', and the systematic IUPAC name is 'Benzenol'. 'Hydroxybenzene' is also a recognized name but not the primary systematic one.

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Phenol has a low boiling point, making it difficult to handle in industrial processes.

Answer: False

Explanation: Phenol possesses a relatively high boiling point (181.7 °C), which facilitates its handling in many industrial processes, contrary to the assertion of a low boiling point.

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Phenol is sparingly soluble in water, with only trace amounts dissolving.

Answer: False

Explanation: Phenol exhibits appreciable solubility in water, with approximately 8.3 grams dissolving per 100 mL at 20 °C, which is more than trace amounts.

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Phenol's acidity is primarily due to the inductive effect of the hydroxyl group.

Answer: False

Explanation: Phenol's enhanced acidity is primarily attributed to the resonance stabilization of the phenolate anion, not solely the inductive effect of the hydroxyl group.

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The keto tautomer of phenol, cyclohexadienone, is highly prevalent under normal conditions.

Answer: False

Explanation: The keto tautomer of phenol, cyclohexadienone, is present in negligible amounts under normal conditions due to the loss of aromaticity.

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The term 'phenol' refers only to the specific molecule C6H6O.

Answer: False

Explanation: The term 'phenol' is used both for the specific molecule C6H6O and more broadly to classify any organic compound featuring a hydroxyl group directly attached to an aromatic ring.

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The primary reason for phenol's greater acidity is the delocalization of charge in the phenolate ion via resonance.

Answer: True

Explanation: The enhanced acidity of phenol is primarily attributed to the resonance delocalization of the negative charge within the phenolate anion.

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The keto tautomer of phenol is unstable because it loses aromaticity.

Answer: True

Explanation: The keto tautomer of phenol (cyclohexadienone) is highly unstable primarily because its formation necessitates the loss of the aromatic stabilization energy inherent in the phenol structure.

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Which of the following is NOT a common alternative name for phenol?

Answer: Hydroxybenzene

Explanation: Common alternative names for phenol include carbolic acid, benzenol, and phenolic acid. Hydroxybenzene is a valid chemical name but is not typically listed among the most common alternative names.

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What is the physical state and key characteristic of phenol mentioned in the source?

Answer: A white crystalline solid that is volatile

Explanation: Phenol is described as a white crystalline solid that is volatile and can catch fire.

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Why is phenol considered more acidic than aliphatic alcohols?

Answer: The phenolate anion is stabilized by resonance delocalization.

Explanation: Phenol's enhanced acidity relative to aliphatic alcohols is primarily attributed to the resonance stabilization of the phenolate anion, which delocalizes the negative charge across the aromatic ring.

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What is the preferred IUPAC name for phenol?

Answer: Phenol

Explanation: The preferred IUPAC nomenclature for phenol is 'Phenol'.

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What is the approximate molar mass of phenol?

Answer: 94.113 g/mol

Explanation: Phenol possesses a molar mass of 94.113 g/mol.

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How soluble is phenol in water, and how does its sodium salt compare?

Answer: About 8.3 grams dissolve per 100 mL.

Explanation: Phenol exhibits appreciable solubility in water, dissolving approximately 8.3 grams per 100 mL at 20 °C. Its corresponding sodium salt demonstrates considerably higher water solubility.

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What is the primary reason for the near-negligible prevalence of phenol's keto tautomer (cyclohexadienone)?

Answer: The keto form involves the loss of aromaticity, making it highly unfavorable.

Explanation: The keto tautomer of phenol, cyclohexadienone, is highly unfavorable because its formation necessitates the forfeiture of the aromatic stabilization energy inherent in the phenyl ring.

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Safety, Toxicology, and Hazard Communication

GHS hazard pictograms for phenol include corrosion, skull and crossbones (toxicity), and health hazard.

Answer: True

Explanation: The Globally Harmonized System (GHS) hazard pictograms associated with phenol encompass those for corrosion (GHS05), toxicity (skull and crossbones, GHS06), and health hazard (GHS08).

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The GHS signal word for phenol is 'Warning', indicating moderate hazards.

Answer: False

Explanation: The GHS signal word for phenol is 'Danger', signifying severe hazards, not 'Warning'.

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According to NFPA 704, phenol is rated 0 for flammability, meaning it does not burn.

Answer: False

Explanation: The NFPA 704 rating for phenol's flammability is 2, indicating it requires moderate heating or relatively high ambient temperatures for ignition, not 0.

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Phenol's flash point is 79 °C, and its explosive limits in air range from 1.8% to 8.6%.

Answer: True

Explanation: Phenol exhibits a flash point of 79 °C (174 °F), with its explosive limits in air spanning from 1.8% to 8.6%.

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The oral LD50 for phenol in rats is significantly higher than in mice.

Answer: False

Explanation: The reported oral LD50 values for phenol are 317 mg/kg in rats and 270 mg/kg in mice. The statement that the rat LD50 is significantly higher is considered false based on the provided correct answer.

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NIOSH recommends a Time-Weighted Average (TWA) exposure limit for phenol of 5 ppm.

Answer: True

Explanation: The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) recommends a Time-Weighted Average (TWA) exposure limit for phenol of 5 ppm (19 mg/m³).

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The Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health (IDLH) concentration for phenol is 50 ppm.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health (IDLH) concentration for phenol is established at 250 ppm, not 50 ppm.

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Skin contact with phenol typically causes mild irritation but no severe burns.

Answer: False

Explanation: Skin contact with phenol can result in severe burns and potential systemic poisoning, not merely mild irritation.

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Washing with soap and water is the recommended method for decontaminating phenol from skin.

Answer: False

Explanation: Recommended decontamination methods for phenol exposure include washing with polyethylene glycol or isopropyl alcohol, or copious amounts of water; soap and water is not listed as the primary recommendation.

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Phenol's corrosive effect is due to its ability to oxidize metals.

Answer: False

Explanation: Phenol's corrosive action stems from its ability to denature proteins in biological tissues, not from oxidizing metals.

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The 'skin' notation in NIOSH limits for phenol means it is only a skin irritant.

Answer: False

Explanation: The 'skin' notation associated with NIOSH exposure limits for phenol signifies that significant absorption through the skin can occur, contributing to overall systemic exposure, not merely indicating it is only a skin irritant.

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Ingesting one gram of phenol is generally considered a lethal dose for humans.

Answer: True

Explanation: Ingestion of approximately one gram of phenol is considered a potentially lethal dose for humans.

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Which GHS hazard pictogram is NOT associated with phenol according to the source?

Answer: Flame (GHS02)

Explanation: The Globally Harmonized System (GHS) hazard pictograms relevant to phenol include those indicating corrosion (GHS05), toxicity (skull and crossbones, GHS06), and health hazard (GHS08). The 'Flame' pictogram (GHS02) is not listed as associated.

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What does the GHS signal word 'Danger' for phenol indicate?

Answer: It suggests potential for severe health effects or physical hazards.

Explanation: The GHS signal word 'Danger' for phenol indicates potential for severe health effects or physical hazards, consistent with its classification as toxic and corrosive.

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According to NFPA 704, what is phenol's rating for health hazard?

Answer: 3 (Serious Hazard)

Explanation: The NFPA 704 hazard rating for phenol's health aspect is 3, indicating that short exposure could cause serious temporary or residual injury.

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What are the explosive limits of phenol in air, as stated in the source?

Answer: 1.8% to 8.6%

Explanation: Phenol's lower and upper explosive limits in air are reported to be between 1.8% and 8.6%.

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Which statement accurately reflects the LD50 values for phenol?

Answer: The oral LD50 in rats is reported as 317 mg/kg.

Explanation: The oral LD50 for phenol is reported as 317 mg/kg in rats and 270 mg/kg in mice, indicating moderate acute toxicity. The statement that the rat LD50 is 317 mg/kg is accurate.

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What does the 'skin' notation in the NIOSH Recommended Exposure Limits (REL) for phenol signify?

Answer: Phenol can be significantly absorbed through the skin, contributing to total exposure.

Explanation: The 'skin' notation accompanying NIOSH exposure limits for phenol signifies that significant dermal absorption is possible, contributing substantially to total systemic exposure. Consequently, appropriate skin protection measures are imperative.

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What is a significant health hazard associated with skin contact with phenol?

Answer: Severe skin burns and potential systemic poisoning

Explanation: Skin contact with phenol poses significant health hazards, including severe chemical burns. Furthermore, substantial dermal absorption can lead to systemic poisoning, potentially impacting vital organs such as the liver, heart, and central nervous system.

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Which of the following is NOT listed as a method for decontaminating phenol from skin exposure?

Answer: Washing with soap and water

Explanation: Recommended decontamination protocols for phenol skin exposure involve washing with polyethylene glycol, isopropyl alcohol, or flushing with copious amounts of water. Washing with soap and water is not listed as a primary recommendation.

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What is the mechanism behind phenol's corrosive effect on skin?

Answer: Denaturation of proteins.

Explanation: The corrosive action of phenol on skin and mucous membranes is primarily mediated by its capacity to denature proteins.

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What is the significance of the 'Danger' signal word and H314 hazard statement for phenol?

Answer: Highlights severe corrosive effects on skin and eyes.

Explanation: The GHS signal word 'Danger' and hazard statement H314 ('Causes severe skin burns and eye damage') for phenol highlight its severe corrosive effects on skin and eyes.

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What is the approximate amount of phenol considered lethal?

Answer: 1 gram

Explanation: Ingestion of approximately one gram of phenol is considered a potentially lethal dose for humans.

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Industrial Production and Applications

The primary industrial use of phenol is as a solvent for cleaning purposes.

Answer: False

Explanation: While phenol possesses solvent properties, its principal industrial significance lies in its role as a precursor for material synthesis, not as a general cleaning solvent.

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Global annual production of phenol is estimated to be around 7 million tonnes.

Answer: True

Explanation: The global annual production volume for phenol is substantial, estimated at approximately 7 million tonnes.

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Phenol derivatives are used in the manufacturing of detergents, herbicides, and some pharmaceutical drugs.

Answer: True

Explanation: Derivatives of phenol find extensive application in the synthesis of detergents, herbicides, and various pharmaceutical compounds.

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The cumene process (Hock process) is the dominant method for industrial phenol production today.

Answer: True

Explanation: The cumene process, also known as the Hock process, is the predominant method employed for the industrial production of phenol globally.

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The cumene process produces phenol exclusively, with no other significant co-products.

Answer: False

Explanation: The cumene process yields both phenol and acetone as significant co-products, making the demand for both chemicals crucial for economic viability.

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An older method for phenol production involved the reaction of benzenesulfonic acid with a strong base.

Answer: True

Explanation: An established historical method for phenol synthesis involved the alkali fusion of benzenesulfonic acid, producing sodium phenoxide, which was subsequently acidified to yield phenol.

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Phenol can be produced from chlorobenzene via hydrolysis, but this method is preferred due to its low cost.

Answer: False

Explanation: While phenol can be produced from chlorobenzene via hydrolysis, these methods are generally less economically favored compared to the cumene process due to factors like cost and byproduct management.

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Bisphenol-A, used in polycarbonates, is synthesized from phenol and formaldehyde.

Answer: False

Explanation: Bisphenol-A, a precursor for polycarbonates, is synthesized from phenol and acetone, not formaldehyde.

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Bakelite is an example of a phenolic resin produced from phenol and formaldehyde.

Answer: True

Explanation: Bakelite is a well-known example of a phenolic resin, synthesized through the condensation reaction of phenol with formaldehyde.

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Phenol is used in phenol-chloroform extraction to isolate proteins.

Answer: False

Explanation: In the phenol-chloroform extraction technique, phenol is utilized for the isolation of nucleic acids (DNA or RNA), not primarily proteins.

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Nitrogen-blanketing is used when shipping phenol to prevent oxidation and discoloration.

Answer: True

Explanation: Nitrogen-blanketing is employed during the shipment of phenol, particularly in its molten state, to inhibit oxidation and prevent discoloration.

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The majority of phenol production is used for producing dyes and pigments.

Answer: False

Explanation: While phenol derivatives are used in dyes, the majority of phenol production is directed towards the synthesis of plastics and resins, not primarily dyes and pigments.

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What is the primary industrial application driving the large-scale production of phenol?

Answer: Precursor for plastics like polycarbonates and epoxy resins

Explanation: The principal applications of phenol, accounting for approximately two-thirds of its global production, involve its transformation into precursors for plastics, including bisphenol-A for polycarbonates and epoxy resins, and formaldehyde for phenolic resins.

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Which compound is synthesized using phenol and is a key precursor for polycarbonates?

Answer: Bisphenol-A

Explanation: Bisphenol-A (BPA) is a critical precursor for polycarbonates and epoxy resins, synthesized via the condensation reaction between phenol and acetone.

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Which process is responsible for approximately 95% of global phenol production?

Answer: The cumene process (Hock process)

Explanation: The cumene process, also referred to as the Hock process, is the predominant industrial method for phenol production, accounting for approximately 95% of global output.

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What are the co-products of the cumene process for phenol production?

Answer: Phenol and acetone

Explanation: The cumene process yields both phenol and acetone as significant co-products; economic viability necessitates concurrent demand for both substances.

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Phenolic resins, like Bakelite, are formed by the condensation reaction between phenol and which other substance?

Answer: Formaldehyde

Explanation: Phenolic resins are polymers formed by the condensation of phenol (or related phenolic compounds) with formaldehyde. Bakelite stands as a historically significant example of such a resin.

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What is the role of phenol in the phenol-chloroform extraction technique?

Answer: To help isolate nucleic acids (DNA or RNA).

Explanation: In the phenol-chloroform extraction technique, phenol serves as a key component for isolating nucleic acids (DNA or RNA) from biological samples.

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Which of the following is a correct statement about phenol's production and use?

Answer: The cumene process yields phenol and acetone as co-products.

Explanation: The cumene process is the dominant method for phenol production and yields both phenol and acetone as co-products. Its industrial production continues due to its essential role in manufacturing various materials.

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What is the purpose of nitrogen-blanketing when shipping phenol?

Answer: To prevent discoloration.

Explanation: Nitrogen-blanketing is employed during the transport of phenol, particularly when shipped in a molten state, to prevent oxidation and subsequent discoloration.

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What is the relationship between phenol and Bakelite?

Answer: Bakelite is a type of phenolic resin derived from phenol.

Explanation: Bakelite is a historically significant example of a phenolic resin, synthesized through the condensation reaction of phenol with formaldehyde.

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Historical, Medical, and Biological Context

Phenol reacts with iron(III) chloride to produce colorless solutions.

Answer: False

Explanation: Phenol reacts with iron(III) chloride to yield intensely colored solutions, typically violet, blue, or green, due to the formation of phenoxide complexes.

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Phenol is found naturally in human urine and in the secretions of male elephants.

Answer: True

Explanation: Phenol occurs naturally as a metabolic product in human urine, and has also been detected in the temporal gland secretions of male elephants and in castoreum.

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Phenol is a key flavor component in beverages like Chardonnay wine.

Answer: False

Explanation: Phenol is recognized as a flavor component in certain alcoholic beverages, notably Islay Scotch whisky, but not typically Chardonnay wine.

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The bacterium Rhodococcus phenolicus can degrade phenol.

Answer: True

Explanation: The bacterium *Rhodococcus phenolicus* is capable of degrading phenol, utilizing it as its sole carbon source.

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Phenol was discovered by Louis Pasteur in the 19th century.

Answer: False

Explanation: Phenol was first isolated and described by Friedlieb Ferdinand Runge in 1834, not Louis Pasteur.

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Sir Joseph Lister pioneered the use of phenol as a surgical antiseptic.

Answer: True

Explanation: Sir Joseph Lister is recognized as the pioneer who introduced the application of phenol as a surgical antiseptic.

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Lister's use of phenol in surgery dramatically increased patient mortality rates.

Answer: False

Explanation: Lister's introduction of antiseptic surgery utilizing phenol led to a dramatic decrease, not an increase, in patient mortality rates.

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Phenol was used by Nazi Germany for executions during World War II.

Answer: True

Explanation: Phenol was employed by Nazi Germany during World War II as a means of individual execution, notably in programs targeting disabled individuals and in concentration camps.

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Phenol injections are used to denervate nerves, providing pain relief.

Answer: True

Explanation: Phenol injections are utilized in medical contexts for chemical denervation of nerves, serving to alleviate pain.

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Recent studies show phenol injections are ineffective for knee osteoarthritis pain.

Answer: False

Explanation: Recent clinical studies (2023-2025) indicate that phenol injections into sensory knee nerves can be effective for managing pain associated with chronic osteoarthritis.

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Concentrated phenol can be applied topically as a local anesthetic in otology.

Answer: True

Explanation: In otological procedures, concentrated phenol is applied topically as a local anesthetic.

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Phenol contributes to the characteristic flavor profile of Islay Scotch whisky.

Answer: True

Explanation: Phenol is a recognized contributor to the distinctive flavor and aroma profile of Islay Scotch whisky.

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Reaction of phenol with diazomethane and BF3 yields anisole.

Answer: True

Explanation: The reaction of phenol with diazomethane in the presence of boron trifluoride (BF3) yields anisole as the principal product.

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Phenol reacts with dilute nitric acid to form picric acid.

Answer: False

Explanation: Phenol reacts with dilute nitric acid to form 2-nitrophenol and 4-nitrophenol. Picric acid (2,4,6-trinitrophenol) is formed with concentrated nitric acid.

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Joseph Lister's work with phenol led to a significant decrease in surgical infection rates.

Answer: True

Explanation: Sir Joseph Lister's pioneering application of phenol as a surgical antiseptic resulted in a significant reduction in surgical infection rates.

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The 'carbolic smoke ball' was a successful medical device that utilized phenol.

Answer: False

Explanation: The 'carbolic smoke ball' was an ineffective device marketed in the 19th century, notable for the legal case *Carlill v Carbolic Smoke Ball Company*, rather than a successful medical device.

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Phenol is used in a procedure called chemical matrixectomy to permanently treat ingrown toenails.

Answer: True

Explanation: Phenol is employed in the procedure known as chemical matrixectomy for the permanent treatment of ingrown toenails, by ablating the nail matrix tissue.

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Phenol's chemical denervation effect works by stimulating nerve growth.

Answer: False

Explanation: Phenol's chemical denervation effect functions by denaturing nerve proteins and disrupting nerve fat and myelin, thereby blocking signal transmission, not by stimulating nerve growth.

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Who is credited with discovering phenol and isolating it from coal tar?

Answer: Friedlieb Ferdinand Runge

Explanation: Phenol was discovered in 1834 by Friedlieb Ferdinand Runge, who isolated it from coal tar. Runge initially designated it 'Karbolsäure', which translates to carbolic acid.

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What inspired Sir Joseph Lister to use phenol as an antiseptic in surgery?

Answer: Louis Pasteur's research on sterilization and observations about carbolic acid's effect on sewage.

Explanation: Sir Joseph Lister pioneered the surgical application of phenol as an antiseptic. This innovation was inspired by Louis Pasteur's research on sterilization and observations regarding carbolic acid's efficacy in mitigating odors from sewage treatment.

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How did Lister's introduction of antiseptic surgery using phenol impact mortality rates?

Answer: Mortality rates decreased from nearly 50% to around 15%.

Explanation: Prior to Lister's introduction of antiseptic surgical practices, patient mortality rates approached 50%. Following the implementation of phenol-based antisepsis, these rates decreased substantially to approximately 15%, representing a significant advancement in surgical outcomes.

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How does phenol function as a chemical denervation agent?

Answer: By blocking nerve signal transmission through protein denaturation.

Explanation: The chemical denervation effect of phenol on nerves involves the denaturation of nerve proteins and reduction of nerve lipids (fat and myelin), thereby interrupting sensory signal transmission and providing analgesia.

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In otology, concentrated phenol is used primarily as:

Answer: A local anesthetic during procedures.

Explanation: In otology, concentrated liquid phenol is applied topically to serve as a local anesthetic during procedures like myringotomy and tympanotomy tube insertion, offering an alternative to general anesthesia.

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Which historical event involved the use of phenol for executions by Nazi Germany?

Answer: The Aktion T4 program and concentration camps.

Explanation: During World War II, Nazi Germany utilized phenol for individual executions, notably within the Aktion T4 program targeting disabled individuals and in concentration camps such as Auschwitz.

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The source mentions phenol is found naturally in human urine. What other natural occurrences are noted?

Answer: In the temporal gland secretion of male elephants and in castoreum.

Explanation: Phenol occurs naturally as a metabolic product in human urine, and has also been detected in the temporal gland secretions of male elephants and in castoreum.

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What is the primary function of phenol when used in analgesia treatments for conditions like spasticity or cancer pain?

Answer: To cause chemical denervation, blocking pain signals.

Explanation: Phenol functions as a chemical denervation agent in analgesia treatments by interrupting sensory nerve transmission through protein denaturation and disruption of nerve lipids, thereby blocking pain signals.

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Which statement about phenol's reaction with nitric acid is accurate according to the source?

Answer: Dilute nitric acid produces 2-nitrophenol and 4-nitrophenol.

Explanation: Phenol reacts with dilute nitric acid to yield a mixture of 2-nitrophenol and 4-nitrophenol. Under conditions involving concentrated nitric acid, further nitration occurs, leading to the formation of 2,4,6-trinitrophenol (picric acid).

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