Question

Convert benzyl alcohol to 2-phenylethanoic acid

Answer 1

This will be the reaction

Answer 2

Benzyl alcohol can not be directly converted to 2-phenylethanoic acid but can be converted by the following process:

• PCl₅ is added to benzyl alcohol. This results in the formation of benzoyl chloride. The by-products are POCl₃ and HCl.
• After this , KCN is added to the benzoyl chloride. It forms benzyl cyanide and KCl is lost.
• Benzyl cyanide then undergoes the process of hydrolysis and the final product 2-phenyl ethanoic acid is formed.
• Benzyl alcohol is a aromatic colorless liquid. It is a type of solvent which is used in inks, wax etc.
• Due to the honey like fragrance of 2-phenylethanoic acid it is used in perfumes.

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