Question

An organic compound (A) of molecular formula C₆H₆ reacts with propylene in the presence of H₃PO₄ at 532 K gives (B) of formula C₉H₁₂ . (B)on air oxidation gives C₉H₁₂O₂ as (C). (C) on acidification with H₂SO₄ gives (D) of formula C₆H₆O and (E) of formula C₃H₆O.

Identify A, B, C, D and E and explain the reactions.

Answer 1

1. (A) is identified as benzene from the molecular formula.

2. Benzene reacts with propylene in the presence of H₃PO₄ gives cumene as (B).

3. Cumene on air oxidation produces cumene hydroperoxide as (C).

4. Cumene hydroperoxide on treatement with H₂SO₄ yield phenol as (D) and acetone as (E).