Question

\( p \)-cresol reacts with chloroform in alkaline medium to give the compound A which adds hydrogen cyanide to form the compound B. The latter on acidic hydrolysis gives chiral carboxylic acid. The structure of the carboxylic acid is:

• A. A
• B. B
• C. C
• D. D

Hint:

The reaction of phenols with chloroform in alkaline conditions followed by hydrolysis leads to the formation of chiral carboxylic acids.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: \( p \)-cresol reacts with chloroform in alkaline medium to form a cyano compound.
Step 2: The final product after hydrolysis gives a chiral carboxylic acid. The structure of the carboxylic acid is \( \text{CH}_3\text{C}(\text{OH})\text{COOH} \).

Final Answer: \[ \boxed{\text{CH}_3\text{C}(\text{OH})\text{COOH}} \]