Question

Consider the following reaction:

The major product obtained is:

• A.
• B.
• C.
• D.

Hint:

When reacting alcohols with thionyl chloride (SOCl\(_2\)), the hydroxyl group is replaced by a chlorine atom, forming an alkyl chloride. This reaction typically proceeds via nucleophilic substitution (S\(_N\)2 mechanism) with the elimination of sulfur dioxide (SO\(_2\)) and hydrogen chloride (HCl).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

When benzyl alcohol (C\(_6\)H\(_5\)CH\(_2\)OH) reacts with thionyl chloride (SOCl\(_2\)), the hydroxyl group (OH) is replaced by a chlorine atom, resulting in the formation of benzyl chloride (C\(_6\)H\(_5\)CH\(_2\)Cl). This is a typical reaction for alcohols with SOCl\(_2\), where the alcohol undergoes nucleophilic substitution. Thus, the major product is benzyl chloride (C\(_6\)H\(_5\)CH\(_2\)Cl).