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: Understanding the Concept
The reaction of an alkyl or aryl halide with magnesium in dry ether produces a Grignard Reagent. Grignard reagents are highly reactive and undergo protonation (acid-base reaction) when treated with water.
Step 2: Key Formula or Approach
1. Formation: $R-Cl + Mg \xrightarrow{Ether} R-MgCl$ 2. Hydrolysis: $R-MgCl + H_2O \to R-H + Mg(OH)Cl$
Step 3: Detailed Explanation
1. Formation of Grignard Reagent: Benzyl chloride ($C_6H_5CH_2Cl$) reacts with Mg to form Benzyl magnesium chloride ($C_6H_5CH_2MgCl$). 2. Treatment with water: The benzyl group ($C_6H_5CH_2^-$) acts as a strong base and picks up a proton ($H^+$) from water. \[ C_6H_5CH_2MgCl + H_2O \to C_6H_5CH_3 + Mg(OH)Cl \] 3. The resulting product is $C_6H_5CH_3$, which is Toluene.
Step 4: Final Answer
Compound 'A' is Toluene.