The product A, is (a) (b) (c) (d)

2 4 4 dil.H SO / HgSO is the reagent used for oxymercuration and demercuration. It works on the principle of Markownikoff’s addition. As per this rule, hydronium ion goes to the carbon bearing more number of hydrogens. The first step leads to markownikoff product due to the formation of stable carbocation as reactive intermediate. While in second step, keto-enol tautomerism takes place. Therefore, propiophenone will be the favourable product.