Question

The major product of the following reaction is:

• A.
• B.
• C.
• D.

Hint:

Nucleophilic aromatic substitution reactions favor positions that stabilize the intermediate through resonance or inductive effects

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

This reaction is a nucleophilic substitution (S_N2) using sodium cyanide (NaCN) as the nucleophile and DMF as the solvent. The cyanide ion (CN⁻) attacks the electrophilic carbon bonded to a halide (Cl or I), replacing it.

The reactant's structure is:

C₆H₄ClI

Adding NaCN causes the cyanide ion (CN⁻) to substitute for the halide, forming a nitrile group (CN).

The major product of this reaction is:

C₆H₄CN

Therefore, the major product is compound (C) Iodobenzene with a CN group attached to the benzene ring.