Is hydroxyl(-OH) is the functional group present in benzyl alcohol? And what classification tests would you run to verify your IR results?

acid chloride test.

the Lucas test.
Just to get you started.

Yes, hydroxyl (-OH) is indeed the functional group present in benzyl alcohol. Benzyl alcohol has a benzene ring with a hydroxyl group attached to it, which is represented as C6H5CH2OH in its molecular formula.

To verify the presence of the hydroxyl group in benzyl alcohol using classification tests, you can perform the following tests:

1. Bromine Water Test: Add a few drops of bromine water to a small amount of benzyl alcohol. If the hydroxyl group is present, it will react with bromine to form an orange-red precipitate of 2,4,6-tribromobenzyl alcohol.

2. Lucas Test: Mix benzyl alcohol with an equal amount of Lucas reagent (a mixture of concentrated hydrochloric acid and zinc chloride). Benzyl alcohol is a primary alcohol, and it reacts slowly with the Lucas reagent. If no visible changes are observed within 5 minutes, it confirms the presence of a primary alcohol.

3. Chromic Acid Test: Add a small amount of benzyl alcohol to a test tube and then add a few drops of chromic acid (Jones reagent). A color change from orange (Cr6+) to green (Cr3+) indicates the presence of the hydroxyl group.

4. Silver Nitrate Test: Mix benzyl alcohol with a few drops of silver nitrate (AgNO3) solution. A white precipitate of silver(I) benzylate is formed, indicating the presence of the hydroxyl group.

It's important to note that these tests are not specific to benzyl alcohol and can be used to identify the hydroxyl group in various compounds. Additionally, it is always recommended to consult appropriate references and follow safety precautions while performing any chemical tests.