Question

Identify 'A' in the following reaction: A + chloromethane $\xrightarrow{Anhydrous~AlCl_{3}$ 2-chlorotoluene + 4-chlorotoluene}

• A. Benzene
• B. Chlorobenzene
• C. Toluene
• D. Phenol

Hint:

Chlorine is an ortho/para directing group in electrophilic substitution.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Concept
This is a Friedel-Crafts alkylation reaction where an alkyl group is introduced into an aromatic ring.

Step 2: Analysis
- The products are 2-chlorotoluene and 4-chlorotoluene (ortho and para isomers). - Chloromethane ($CH_{3}Cl$) provides the methyl ($-CH_{3}$) group. - The starting material must already contain a chlorine atom to direct the incoming methyl group to the ortho and para positions.

Step 3: Conclusion
Therefore, 'A' must be Chlorobenzene. Final Answer: (B)