Identify A and B in the following reaction scheme

To identify A and B in the following reaction, it is crucial to analyze the reaction scheme carefully. The given options suggest that A and B could be different compounds formed during a specific chemical process. Let's explore the options in detail to determine the correct answer.

Option Analysis

• Option a: Both A and B are mixtures of ortho and para chloro toluenes. While it is plausible for certain reactions, this option doesn't fit the typical outcomes of the given reaction scheme.
• Option b: A is a mixture of ortho and para chloro toluenes, while B is benzyl chloride. This indicates that A results from a chlorination process and B involves the chlorination of toluene at the benzyl position.
• Option c: B is a mixture of ortho and para chloro toluenes, while A is Gammaxane. This is unlikely as Gammaxane (Lindane) is a specific isomer of hexachlorocyclohexane, unrelated to the given reaction.
• Option d: A is benzyl chloride, while B is a mixture of ortho and para chloro toluenes. This aligns with the expected results if the reaction involves toluene undergoing free radical chlorination to form benzyl chloride (A) and electrophilic substitution to form a mixture of ortho and para chloro toluenes (B).

Correct Answer

Based on the analysis, the correct answer is:

d. A is benzyl chloride, while B is a mixture of ortho and para chloro toluenes.

Explanation

To identify A and B in the following reaction, consider the process:

• Formation of A: The chlorination of toluene under specific conditions can lead to the formation of benzyl chloride (A). This occurs when chlorine reacts with the methyl group attached to the benzene ring.
• Formation of B: Simultaneously, electrophilic substitution on the benzene ring of toluene results in the formation of ortho and para chloro toluenes (B) due to the activating effect of the methyl group.

This reaction scheme highlights the dual nature of chlorination, leading to the formation of two distinct products.

By carefully analyzing the reaction, the identification of A and B in the following reaction confirms that A is benzyl chloride and B is a mixture of ortho and para chloro toluenes.