Question

What are X and Y respectively, in the following set of reactions? 

• A.
• B.
• C.
• D.

Hint:

Diazonium salts undergo substitution reactions with copper salts (Sandmeyer reaction) and phenol formation via hydrolysis; subsequent bromination occurs at activated aromatic positions.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

- Starting with p-toluidine (4-methyl aniline), the reaction with NaNO\(_2\)/HCl at 273–278 K forms the diazonium salt.
- Reaction of the diazonium salt with Cu\(_2\)Br\(_2\)/HBr substitutes the diazonium group with bromine, forming benzyl bromide (X).
- The second sequence involves converting the diazonium salt to phenol via reaction with ethanol, and then bromination in presence of UV light leads to substitution at the para position, forming p-bromotoluene (Y).