Question

The major product ‘P’ formed in the given reaction is

• A.
• B.
• C.
• D.

Hint:

Alkaline KMnO₄ is a powerful oxidizing agent that converts alkyl side chains on aromatic rings to carboxylic acid groups. Remember that the reaction conditions (alkaline and heat) are crucial for this transformation

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Reaction Description: 

The reaction involves the oxidation of an alkyl-substituted naphthalene derivative using alkaline potassium permanganate (alk. KMnO₄) followed by acidic workup (H₃O⁺).

Key Points:

• Alkaline KMnO₄ is a strong oxidizing agent capable of cleaving carbon-carbon bonds in alkyl side chains attached to aromatic rings.
• The alkyl side chains are oxidized to carboxylic acid groups (-COOH).

Step-by-Step Reaction:

Step 1: Oxidation of Side Chains

• The ethyl groups (-CH₂CH₃) on the naphthalene ring are oxidized to carboxylic acid groups (-COOH).
• The methyl ester group (-COOCH₃) is hydrolyzed under alkaline conditions to form a carboxylic acid group (-COOH).

Step 2: Formation of the Final Product

The final product contains three carboxylic acid groups attached to the naphthalene ring at the 1, 2, and 4 positions, forming naphthalene-1,2,4-tricarboxylic acid.

Conclusion:

The major product (P) is naphthalene-1,2,4-tricarboxylic acid, which corresponds to option (1).