Question:medium

The correct structures of A and B formed in the following reactions are : 

 

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In molecules with both amino (–NH\(_2\)) and hydroxyl (–OH) groups, the amino group is generally a stronger nucleophile and will react preferentially in acylation reactions. This selectivity is a key principle in organic synthesis.
Updated On: Mar 25, 2026
  • A

  • B

  • C

  • D

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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

To determine the correct structures of A and B formed in the given reaction, we need to analyze each step of the reaction mechanism.

Step 1: Reduction of Nitro Group

The given starting compound is a nitrophenol. The reaction begins with the reduction of the nitro group to an amino group using hydrogen in the presence of palladium (H2/Pd) and ethanol (C2H5OH). This process converts the nitrophenol to aminophenol.

Step 2: Acetylation

The acetylation reaction involves the use of acetic anhydride. The amino group on the aminophenol reacts with acetic anhydride to form an amide linkage, resulting in an acetanilide derivative.

The structures for the intermediate and the major product, taking into account the reaction conditions and typical reactivity, are as follows:

Structure A: 4-Acetamidophenol (resulting from acetylation of the amino group on the para position of the hydroxyl group).

Structure B: N-(4-Hydroxyphenyl) acetamide. This is the major product as the acetylation of the amino group is a preferred reaction pathway due to its higher nucleophilicity compared to the hydroxyl group.

Thus, after analyzing the reactions and potential products, the correct structures of A and B are as illustrated in option C.

Conclusion: The correct answer is Option C, which shows the acetylation of the amino group resulting in the major product.

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