Question

Compound 'A' is obtained by the reaction of benzyl chloride with magnesium metal in dry ether followed by treatment with water. What is the compound 'A'?

• A. Toluene
• B. Benzyl alcohol
• C. Phenol
• D. Benzene
• E. Benzaldehyde

Hint:

The Wurtz-Fittig reaction involving the reaction of alkyl halides with magnesium metal in dry ether followed by hydrolysis produces the corresponding hydrocarbon, such as toluene from benzyl chloride.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understand the reaction mechanism.
The reaction described is known as the Wurtz-Fittig reaction, which involves the reaction of an alkyl halide (benzyl chloride) with magnesium metal in dry ether to form a Grignard reagent, followed by hydrolysis with water.
Step 2: Formation of the Grignard reagent.
Benzyl chloride (\( \text{C}_6\text{H}_5\text{CH}_2\text{Cl} \)) reacts with magnesium metal in dry ether, forming the Grignard reagent: \[ \text{C}_6\text{H}_5\text{CH}_2\text{Cl} + \text{Mg} \xrightarrow{\text{ether}} \text{C}_6\text{H}_5\text{CH}_2\text{MgCl} \] This is a benzyl magnesium chloride.
Step 3: Reaction with water.
When the Grignard reagent (\( \text{C}_6\text{H}_5\text{CH}_2\text{MgCl} \)) is treated with water, the magnesium halide is hydrolyzed, resulting in the formation of toluene (methylbenzene): \[ \text{C}_6\text{H}_5\text{CH}_2\text{MgCl} + \text{H}_2\text{O} \rightarrow \text{C}_6\text{H}_5\text{CH}_3 + \text{Mg(OH)Cl} \] The product formed is toluene.
Step 4: Conclusion.
Therefore, the compound 'A' is toluene.