What is the product obtained when phenylethene is treated with $\mathrm{KMnO}_4$ in dilute $\mathrm{H}_2 \mathrm{SO}_4$ ?

• A

  $\mathrm{C}_6 \mathrm{H}_5 \mathrm{CH}_2 \mathrm{CHO}$
• B

  $\mathrm{C}_6 \mathrm{H}_5 \mathrm{CH}_2 \mathrm{COOH}$
• Correct answer
  C

  $\mathrm{C}_6 \mathrm{H}_5 \mathrm{COOH}$
• D

  $\mathrm{C}_6 \mathrm{H}_5 \mathrm{COCH}_3$

Solution

Acidic potassium permanganate oxidizes phenylethene to benzoic acid. This is called oxidative cleavage of alkenes.

Hence, the correct answer is option: 'C'.