Question

What are the major products of the following reactions?

Short answer

The answer is,

a.

b.

c.

d.

Step-by-step solution

Oxidation and Reduction

The oxidation of aromatic compounds containing alkyl groups will lead to the formation of corresponding acids. This can be done using the Chromic acid. The reduction can be done using the Nickel or Palladium catalyst. The product of reduction can be alkanes, amines, etc.

Subpart (a)

The major product of the reaction is shown below.

The isopropyl benzene is oxidized to benzoic acid using chromic acid in presence of heat.

Subpart (b)

The major product of the reaction is shown below.

Both the methyl and ethyl groups in the reaction is oxidized to carboxylic acid, on reaction with chromic acid in presence of heat.

Subpart (c)

The major product of the reaction is shown below.

The toluene is converted to methoxy benzyl ether on reaction with N-bromosuccinamide and peroxide, followed by reaction with methoxide.

Subpart (d)

The major product of the reaction is shown below.

The toluene is converted into a primary amine on reaction with bromine in light and cyanide, followed by reduction with Raney Nickel.