Question

Which of the following is the Reimer-Tiemann reaction?

• A. \( \text{Formylation of phenols using chloroform and alkali to form ortho-hydroxybenzaldehyde.} \)
• B. \( \text{Bromination of phenols in the presence of bromine water.} \)
• C. \( \text{Oxidation of phenols to quinones using an oxidizing agent.} \)
• D. \( \text{Nitration of phenols in the presence of concentrated nitric acid.} \)

Hint:

The Reimer-Tiemann reaction is a selective method for formylating phenols, producing ortho-hydroxybenzaldehyde. It requires chloroform (\( \text{CHCl}_3 \)) and a strong base like NaOH to generate the reactive dichlorocarbene intermediate.