JEE MainChemistryAlcohols Phenols and Ethers
When 4-(methoxymethyl)anisole is heated with excess concentrated HI, the major aromatic product formed is:
Options
- A1-Iodo-4-(iodomethyl)benzene
- B4-(Iodomethyl)phenol
- C1-(Iodomethyl)-4-methoxybenzene
- D4-(Hydroxymethyl)phenol
Correct answer
B. 4-(Iodomethyl)phenol
Step-by-step solution
The given molecule, 4-(methoxymethyl)anisole, contains two different ether linkages: an aryl alkyl ether ( -O-CH₃ attached directly to the benzene ring) and a benzyl alkyl ether ( -CH₂-O-CH₃ ). When heated with excess concentrated HI: 1. For the aryl alkyl ether, the Ar-O bond has partial double bond character due to resonance and is stronger than the O-CH₃ bond. Thus, cleavage occurs at the O-CH₃ bond, yielding a phenol ( -OH ) and methyl iodide ( CH₃I ). 2. For the benzyl alkyl ether, the Ar-CH₂-O bond cleaves re