The oxidation of benzene by V$$_2$$O$$_5$$ in the presence of air produces:

Question

Accepted Answer

1. **Stability of Benzene:** The benzene ring is generally stable to strong oxidising agents like $$KMnO_4$$ or $$K_2Cr_2O_7$$; typically, only the alkyl side chains are oxidised (e.g., Toluene to Benzoic acid).
2. **Catalytic Oxidation:** However, under vigorous conditions—specifically heating benzene in the presence of air (oxygen) and **Vanadium pentoxide ($$V_2O_5$$)** catalyst at **773 K**—the aromatic ring undergoes cleavage.
3. **Reaction:** 
   $$ 2C_6H_6 + 9O_2 \xrightarrow{V_2O_5, \Delta} 2C_4H_2O_3 	ext{ (Maleic anhydride)} + 4CO_2 + 4H_2O $$
4. **Conclusion:** The specific product formed in this catalytic vapour phase oxidation is **Maleic anhydride** .

Step-by-Step Solution

Practice All CHEMISTRY Questions