Step 1: Analyze the reaction.
The reaction involves a carbonyl compound (benzoyl group \( \text{C}_6\text{H}_5\text{CO} \)) with two bromine atoms attached to a carbon. The reaction with hydroxide ions (\( OH^- \)) suggests a nucleophilic substitution.
Step 2: Mechanism of the reaction.
The hydroxide ion (\( OH^- \)) attacks the electrophilic carbon attached to the bromine, replacing the bromine atom. The two bromine atoms are replaced by a single hydroxyl group, resulting in the formation of an aldehyde group.
Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct product is \( \text{C}_6\text{H}_5\text{COCHO} \) (benzaldehyde), which corresponds to option (1).