Question

The reaction of toluene with Cl\(_2\) in the presence of FeCl\(_3\) gives predominantly-

• A. Benzoyl chloride
• B. Benzyl chloride
• C. m-chlorotoluene
• D. o- and p-chlorotoluene

Hint:

Activating groups like \(-\text{CH}_3\) increase the rate of electrophilic substitution and direct incoming electrophiles to ortho and para positions.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: In the presence of FeCl\(_3\), chlorination of toluene occurs via electrophilic aromatic substitution.
Step 2: The methyl group (\(-\text{CH}_3\)) in toluene is an electron-donating and ortho/para-directing group.
Step 3: Due to increased electron density at the ortho and para positions, substitution occurs mainly at these positions.
Step 4: Hence, the major products formed are ortho-chlorotoluene and para-chlorotoluene.