Question

The reaction steps shown are: 

The final product (P) is:

• A. 1
• B. 2
• C. 3
• D. 4

Hint:

The reduction with Na-Hg in ethanol is a key step in forming quinoline, which is an aromatic heterocyclic compound.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Sodium Ethoxide Reaction. 
Sodium ethoxide (Na-EtOH) promotes an elimination reaction, causing the pyridine to undergo dehydrohalogenation and generate a substituted intermediate. 
 

Step 2: Methylation Reaction with CH3\(\text{I}\). 
Methyl iodide (\(CH_3I\)) reacts with the nitrogen atom of pyridine, attaching a methyl group and forming a quaternary salt. 
 

Step 3: Moist Silver Oxide and Heating. 
Heating the reaction mixture with moist Ag\(_2\)O results in the formation of an intermediate susceptible to further rearrangement, driven by aromaticity. 
 

Step 4: Reduction with Sodium Mercury. 
Sodium amalgam (Na-Hg) in ethanol reduces the intermediate, yielding quinoline as the final product (P). 
 

Final Answer: \[ \boxed{\text{Quinoline}} \]