Question:medium

Identify the product 'A' in the following reaction: Anisole $\xrightarrow[398~K]{HI}$ A + Iodomethane}

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Aryl-Oxygen bonds are stronger than Alkyl-Oxygen bonds due to resonance.
Updated On: Jun 19, 2026
  • Aniline
  • Iodobenzene
  • Benzenol
  • Benzene
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
This question involves the cleavage of an ether (Anisole) by a strong acid (HI).

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:

Anisole is Methoxybenzene (\( \text{C}_6\text{H}_5\text{-O-CH}_3 \)).
When an alkyl aryl ether reacts with HI:
1. The \( \text{H}^+ \) protonates the oxygen.
2. The \( \text{I}^- \) ion attacks the smaller alkyl group (methyl) via an \( \text{S}_{\text{N}}2 \) mechanism.
3. The bond between the phenyl group and oxygen (\( \text{sp}^2 \) C - O bond) is very strong and has partial double bond character, so it does not break.
The products are Phenol (Benzenol) and Methyl Iodide (Iodomethane).
\( \text{C}_6\text{H}_5\text{-O-CH}_3 + \text{HI} \rightarrow \text{C}_6\text{H}_5\text{OH (A)} + \text{CH}_3\text{I} \).

Step 4: Final Answer:

Product 'A' is Benzenol (Phenol).
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