Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
This reaction involves phenol treated with \(\mathrm{CH_2I_2}\) and \(\mathrm{NaOH}\), leading to formation of a methylene-bridged cyclic ether.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
In basic medium, phenol forms phenoxide ion. The \(\mathrm{CH_2I_2}\) acts as a methylene donor.
Since two \(-OH\) groups are present in ortho-position, intramolecular cyclization occurs forming a five-membered ring with \(-O-CH_2-O-\) linkage.
This results in a benzodioxole structure (cyclic acetal type).
Step 3: Final Answer:
Option (a)