Question

Identify the product B in the following reaction.
Benzoyl chloride + H₂O \(\rightarrow\) B + HCl

• A. Benzoic acid
• B. Benzene
• C. Acetophenone
• D. Benzaldehyde

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Concept:
This reaction involves the hydrolysis of an acyl chloride, specifically benzoyl chloride (C₆H₅COCl). Acyl chlorides are highly reactive derivatives of carboxylic acids and readily undergo hydrolysis when treated with water.

Reaction:
C₆H₅COCl (benzoyl chloride) + H₂O (water) → C₆H₅COOH (benzoic acid) + HCl (hydrochloric acid)

Step-by-Step Explanation:
• Benzoyl chloride contains a reactive acyl group (–COCl).
• When water is added, the nucleophilic oxygen in water attacks the electrophilic carbonyl carbon of the acyl chloride.
• This leads to the breakdown of the C–Cl bond and the formation of a new C–OH bond, resulting in the formation of benzoic acid.
• Chloride ion is released and combines with the hydrogen ion from water to form hydrochloric acid (HCl).

General Reaction for Acyl Chloride Hydrolysis:
R–COCl + H₂O → R–COOH + HCl
(In this case, R = C₆H₅)

Conclusion:
The product B formed when benzoyl chloride is hydrolyzed with water is benzoic acid (C₆H₅COOH). This is a classical reaction used to prepare benzoic acid in organic chemistry.

Therefore, the correct product B is: Benzoic Acid.