Question

Methyl group attached to benzene can be oxidized to a carboxyl group by reacting with:

• A. $F{e}_2{O}_3$
• B. $AgN{O}_3$
• C. $KMn{O}_4$
• D. $Cr{O}_3$

Answer 1

The correct option is C $KMn{O}_4$

Alkaline $KMn{O}_4$ is a strong oxidizing agent. It oxidizes methyl group attached to benzene can be oxidised to carboxyl group.
Other oxidizing agents that can be used are acidified $K_{2}C{r}_2{O}_7$ and dil. $HN{O}_3$