Step 1: Identify reaction
The given conversion is:
\[
\text{Benzoyl chloride} \rightarrow \text{Benzoic acid}
\]
Step 2: Reaction type
This is hydrolysis of acid chloride.
Acid chlorides react with water to give corresponding carboxylic acid:
\[
\text{R-COCl} + \text{H}_2\text{O} \rightarrow \text{R-COOH} + \text{HCl}
\]
Step 3: Apply to given compound
\[
\text{C}_6\text{H}_5\text{COCl} + \text{H}_2\text{O} \rightarrow \text{C}_6\text{H}_5\text{COOH}
\]
Step 4: Check options
• $\text{H}_2\text{O}$ → Hydrolysis \checkmark
• $\text{CrO}_3$ → Oxidizing agent $\times$
• NaOH → Gives salt first (not direct acid) $\times$
• KMnO$_4$ → Strong oxidizing agent $\times$
Conclusion:
Required reagent is water.
Final Answer: Option (A)
