In the above chemical reaction, intermediate "X" and reagent / condition "A" are:
(A)(see structure)
(B)(see structure)
(C)(see structure)✓ Correct
(D)(see structure)
Answer: (C)
Solution
Sodium nitrite with hydrochloric acid generates nitrous acid in the cold, and at 273-278 K this converts a primary aromatic amine into its diazonium salt. Aniline accordingly gives benzenediazonium chloride, which is the intermediate X. The diazonium salt survives only while the solution stays cold. On warming it in water the diazonium group leaves as dinitrogen and the aryl cation produced is captured by water, so the hydroxyl group takes its place and phenol is formed. The intermediate X is benzenediazonium chloride and the reagent A is water with warming.
JEE Main · 2021 · 16 Mar 2021 · Shift 1 · Single correct option