Question

The major product in the given reaction is

• A. toluene
• B. p-methyl toluene
• C. benzene
• D. o-methyl benzene

Hint:

Zinc reduction of phenol leads to the formation of benzene, as zinc removes the hydroxyl group and adds a hydrogen atom to the aromatic ring.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

The given reaction is a zinc reduction of phenol. In this reaction, phenol (C\(_6\)H\(_5\)OH) is reduced by zinc (Zn) to form benzene (C\(_6\)H\(_6\)). The reaction proceeds by the removal of the hydroxyl group (-OH), converting it into a hydrogen atom and forming benzene as the final product. \[ \text{C}_6\text{H}_5\text{OH} \xrightarrow{\text{Zn}, \Delta} \text{C}_6\text{H}_6 \]