Question

What are X, Y in the following reaction sequen?

• A.
• B.
• C.
• D.

Hint:

Catalysts in Oxidation.

• V2O5 is a widely used oxidation catalyst.
• Bromination typically proceeds via a free-radical mechanism.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

The first step involves oxidation of an alkane to an alkene using a metal oxide catalyst. Vanadium pentoxide ({V2O5}) is commonly used in such reactions under high temperature and pressure.
The second step is bromination of the formed alkene under light or peroxide, leading to formation of the bromoalkyl compound.

Answer 2

Step 1: Identify the given compound

The starting compound is n-heptane: CH₃(CH₂)₅CH₃.

Step 2: Reaction with X

Given: X = V₂O₅, 773 K, 10–20 atm

These are the conditions for catalytic reforming. Under these conditions, n-heptane is converted into toluene (C₇H₈), an aromatic hydrocarbon.

Step 3: Reaction with Br₂/Δ

Toluene reacts with bromine in the presence of heat (Δ). Under these conditions, side-chain bromination occurs at the benzylic position (the -CH₃ group attached to the benzene ring).

Product formed is benzyl bromide (C₆H₅CH₂Br).

Final Answers:

X = V₂O₅, 773 K, 10–20 atm

Y = C₆H₅CH₂Br (benzyl bromide)