Question

The product formed in the reaction of cumene with $O_2$ followed by treatment with dil. $HCl$ are :

• A.

  

• B.

  

• C.

  

• D.

  

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

The reaction of cumene with oxygen (O_2), followed by treatment with dilute hydrochloric acid (dil. HCl), is a well-known process in organic chemistry. This sequence of reactions involves the conversion of cumene to cumene hydroperoxide, followed by its transformation into phenol and acetone. Let's break down the reaction step by step:

1. Oxidation of Cumene:

   Cumene, when treated with molecular oxygen, undergoes oxidation to form cumene hydroperoxide.

   \text{C}_9\text{H}_{12} + \text{O}_2 \rightarrow \text{C}_9\text{H}_{12}\text{O}_2

2. Cleavage with Dilute HCl:

   The cumene hydroperoxide then undergoes cleavage in the presence of dilute hydrochloric acid to produce phenol and acetone.

   \text{C}_9\text{H}_{12}\text{O}_2 + \text{HCl} \rightarrow \text{C}_6\text{H}_5\text{OH} + \text{CH}_3\text{COCH}_3

In this process, the cumene is ultimately transformed into phenol and acetone. Therefore, the correct answer is the formation of phenol and acetone.

Thus, the product of the reaction is correctly represented by the above image. This confirms that phenol and acetone are the main products of this reaction sequence.