What is the reaction involved when aniline is converted into phenyl isocyanide?

The conversion of aniline (C₆H₅NH₂) into phenyl isocyanide (C₆H₅NC) takes place through the Carbylamine reaction (also called the Isocyanide test).

In this reaction, aniline is heated with chloroform (CHCl₃) and alcoholic potassium hydroxide (KOH).

Reaction:

C₆H₅NH₂ + CHCl₃ + 3KOH →_Δ C₆H₅NC + 3KCl + 3H₂O

Explanation:

• The amino group (–NH₂) of aniline reacts with chloroform in the presence of alcoholic KOH.
• This produces phenyl isocyanide (C₆H₅NC), which has a strong unpleasant odour.
• The reaction is a characteristic test for primary amines (both aliphatic and aromatic).

Final Answer: The reaction is the Carbylamine reaction, where aniline reacts with CHCl₃ and alcoholic KOH to give phenyl isocyanide with a foul smell.