2 -phenyl ethanol on oxidation with alkaline \(\mathrm{KMnO}_{4}\) gives (a) benzaldehyde (b) 2 -phenyl ethanoic acid (c) benzoic acid (d) 2 -phenyl ethanol

Short Answer

Expert verified
Answer: 2-phenyl ethanoic acid

Step by step solution

01

Identify the reactant and the oxidizing agent

The reactant is 2-phenyl ethanol, which is a primary alcohol with a phenyl group attached. The oxidizing agent is alkaline \(\mathrm{KMnO}_{4}\) (potassium permanganate in alkaline conditions).
02

Determine the oxidation state of the carbon atom to be oxidized

In 2-phenyl ethanol, the alcohol group has a carbon atom adjacent to the phenyl group. The oxidation state of this carbon atom can be found using the formula: x + (-2)(Number of O atoms) + (Number of H atoms) = 0. In this case, x + (-2)(1) + (1) = 0, leading to x = 1. Therefore, the carbon atom to be oxidized has an oxidation state of +1.
03

Determine the possible products of the oxidation reaction

There are two possible products after the oxidation of a primary alcohol: an aldehyde and a carboxylic acid. The correct product will depend on the type of oxidizing agent used. Alkaline \(\mathrm{KMnO}_{4}\) is a strong oxidizing agent, which will oxidize primary alcohols to carboxylic acids.
04

Identify the correct carboxylic acid product

From the given options, the carboxylic acid that could be formed by the oxidation of 2-phenyl ethanol is 2-phenyl ethanoic acid (option b). To conclude:
05

State the correct answer

2-phenyl ethanol on oxidation with alkaline \(\mathrm{KMnO}_{4}\) gives 2-phenyl ethanoic acid (option b).

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