Question

Hydrolysis of an alkyl halide \( X \) (\(C_6H_5Br\)) follows second order kinetics. Reaction of \( X \) with \( C_6H_5Cl \) in the presence of Na/dry ether gave \( Y \). Oxidation of \( Y \) in the presence of \( KMnO_4 / OH^- \) gave \( Z \). What are \( Y \) and \( Z \) respectively?

• A.
• B.
• C.
• D.

Hint:

The hydrolysis of alkyl halides and the oxidation of esters can follow predictable reaction mechanisms and lead to simple aromatic compounds such as alcohols, acids, and esters.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

The given reaction involves the hydrolysis of an alkyl halide \( X \), which follows second order kinetics. The alkyl halide is \( C_6H_5Br \), which undergoes hydrolysis to form \( Y \). The reaction with \( C_6H_5Cl \) in Na/dry ether produces an ester, specifically methyl ester \( C_6H_5COOCH_3 \), which is \( Y \). Oxidation of \( Y \) with \( KMnO_4 \) yields benzoic acid (\( C_6H_5COOH \)), which is \( Z \).