Question

Ascertain the products $B_1$ and $C_1$ of the following reaction:

• A.
• B.
• C.
• D.

Hint:

KMnO\(_4\) is a powerful oxidizing agent that can oxidize methyl groups to carboxylic acids, especially under alkaline conditions.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Initial reaction with acetic acid.
In the first step, the methyl group (\( \text{CH}_3 \)) undergoes oxidation with acetic acid, forming an intermediate compound where the amino group (\( \text{NH}_2 \)) remains attached to the benzene ring. This is a Friedel-Crafts type alkylation.
Step 2: Oxidation with KMnO\(_4\).
The second step involves oxidation using alkaline KMnO\(_4\). Potassium permanganate is a strong oxidizer that will oxidize the methyl group (\( \text{CH}_3 \)) into a carboxyl group (\( \text{COOH} \)).
Step 3: Final acidification.
The final step involves acidification with dilute \( \text{H}_2\text{SO}_4 \), which helps to stabilize the carboxyl group formed during oxidation.
Conclusion:
The product \(B_1\) is a carboxylated intermediate (\( \text{COOH} \)), and the final product \(C_1\) is the carboxylated compound with a carboxylic acid group.