The structure of product C , formed by the following sequence of reactions is :
(A)(see structure)
(B)(see structure)✓ Correct
(C)(see structure)
(D)(see structure)
Answer: (B)
Solution
Thionyl chloride converts acetic acid to acetyl chloride, which acylates benzene under anhydrous AlCl3 (Friedel-Crafts) to give acetophenone. Cyanide ion, released from KCN in the basic medium, adds to the carbonyl carbon of the ketone, and protonation of the resulting alkoxide yields the cyanohydrin. The product is 2-hydroxy-2-phenylpropanenitrile, C6H5C(OH)(CH3)CN.
JEE Main · 2021 · 31 Aug 2021 · Shift 1 · Single correct option