Which of the following is the major product formed when n -heptane is heated to 773 K at 10-20 atm pressure in the presence of V ₂ O ₅ supported over alumina?

Step-by-step solution

When n -heptane is heated to 773 K at 10-20 atm pressure in the presence of a catalyst like V ₂ O ₅ , Cr ₂ O ₃ , or Mo ₂ O ₃ supported over alumina, it undergoes simultaneous dehydrogenation and cyclization. This process is known as aromatization or reforming. Since n -heptane contains seven carbon atoms, it forms a seven-carbon aromatic compound, which is toluene (methylbenzene). The reaction is: CH ₃-( CH ₂)₅- CH ₃ V ₂ O ₅/ Al ₂ O ₃, 773 K , 10-20 atm C ₆ H ₅ CH ₃ + 4 H ₂ Answer: Toluene