Phenol Oxidation Reactions

Abstract The use of well‐known phenol oxidation reactions for the preparation of compounds arising from CC and CO coupling has recently received increased attention. A selection from the large number of products obtainable by oxidation of mono‐ and polyhydric phenols and a discussion of the reaction mechanisms indicate the scope of this method. The formation of hydroxyphenylquinones and orceine dyes from resorcinol derivatives is explained. The synthesis of natural products by way of phenol oxidations is briefly discussed.