Question

In the cumene to phenol preparation in presence of air, the intermediate is

• A.
• B.
• C.
• D.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

The question focuses on identifying the intermediate formed during the preparation of phenol from cumene in the presence of air. The process involved here is known as the 'Cumene Process' which is commonly used in industrial chemistry.

In the cumene process, cumene (isopropylbenzene) is oxidized in the presence of air to produce cumene hydroperoxide, which is the key intermediate. This intermediate is then subject to acid-catalyzed cleavage to yield phenol and acetone.

Let's break down the steps involved in the cumene process:

1. Oxidation: Cumene is oxidized in the presence of oxygen (from air) to form cumene hydroperoxide (\(\text{C}_9\text{H}_{12}\text{O}_2\)).
2. Acidic Cleavage: The cumene hydroperoxide undergoes acid-catalyzed cleavage to produce phenol (\(\text{C}_6\text{H}_5\text{OH}\)) and acetone (\(\text{(CH}_3\text{)CO}\)).

The intermediate compound that is crucial in this reaction is cumene hydroperoxide, which is correctly represented in the given options.

The above image correctly illustrates the structure of cumene hydroperoxide, which serves as the intermediate in this process.

To conclude, the intermediate formed during the preparation of phenol from cumene in the presence of air is cumene hydroperoxide, and the correct answer was identified in the options provided.

Correct answer is (d)