Question

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

• A.

  

• B.

  

• C.

  

• D.

  

Hint:

Cumene oxidation (industrial phenol process) yields benzoic acid or phenol and acetone. Strong KMnO$_4$ cleaves alkyl groups. Identify aromatic oxidation products.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

1. Cumene (C$_6$H$_5$CH(CH$_3$)$_2$) undergoes oxidation with KMnO$_4$/KOH/$\Delta$ to form benzoic acid (C$_6$H$_5$COOH, X) via cleavage of isopropyl group.
2. The side product is acetone (CH$_3$COCH$_3$, Y) after hydrolysis (H$^+$, H$_2$O).
3. Reaction: C$_6$H$_5$CH(CH$_3$)$_2$ $\to$ C$_6$H$_5$COOH + CH$_3$COCH$_3$.
4. Options (1), (2), (4) have incorrect products (e.g., isopropanol or acetophenone).
5. Thus, the answer is (3) COOH, CH$_3$COCH$_3$.