Two products X and Y are formed in the following reaction sequence.

The suitable method that can be used for the separation of products X and Y is :

Core Logic

The reaction sequence yields ortho and para isomers of nitrotoluene derivatives. Or, more simply, standard ortho and para positional isomers generated from electrophilic aromatic substitution. Ortho-isomers and para-isomers generally have distinct boiling points due to differences in intermolecular interactions (e.g., symmetry impacting packing or internal vs external bonding). Ortho-isomer: lower boiling point. Para-isomer: higher boiling point. Because their boiling points are close but sufficiently distinct under reduced pressure, they are separated using fractional distillation.

Pattern Recognition

For separating o/p isomers of substituted benzenes (especially liquids/oils like nitrotoluene or chlorotoluene mixtures), fractional distillation under reduced pressure is the industrial and laboratory standard.

Chapter Mix

Class 12 Chemistry: Haloalkanes and Haloarenes Class 11 Chemistry: Organic Chemistry - Some Basic Principles and Techniques