The commercial preparation of phenol from cumene (isopropylbenzene) involves an initial reaction with oxygen followed by acidic hydrolysis. What is the specific mechanistic pathway for the initial oxi

Question

The commercial preparation of phenol from cumene (isopropylbenzene) involves an initial reaction with oxygen followed by acidic hydrolysis. What is the specific mechanistic pathway for the initial oxidation step forming cumene hydroperoxide?

Prashant Kotian · Accepted Answer

Correct answer: C. The preparation of phenol from cumene proceeds via a peroxide radical mechanism. Oxygen attacks the benzylic position via a free radical pathway to form cumene hydroperoxide, which is then cleaved by acid.

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