Aromatic Aldehydes Ketones and Acids - Result Question 29

36. Explain, why $o$-hydroxy benzaldehyde is a liquid at room temperature while $p$-hydroxy benzaldehyde is a high melting solid?

$(1999,2 M)$

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Solution:

  1. Intramolecular $H-$ bonding in ortho hydroxy benzaldehyde is responsible for decrease in melting and boiling points.

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$p-$ hydroxy benzaldehyde molecules are associated by intermolecular $H-$ bonding, has higher melting and boiling points.