[THC]

What will happen if an alkenylbenzene, for example prop-2-enylbenzene, is oxidized with KMnO4? Will the resulting product be benzoic acid or phenylacetic acid?

Put another way, is the double bond oxidized like alkenes or is the alkenyl group oxidized like alkyl groups on benzene (ex. propylbenzene -> benzoic acid)?

Thanks.

[macman104]

My understanding of the oxidation of alkylbenzenes is that as long as there is a benzylic hydrogen, it will oxidize to benzoic acid.  I would also imagine the benzylic hydrogen be more reactive than the double bond, but this is also just at best a guess.

[THC]

My understanding of the oxidation of alkylbenzenes is that as long as there is a benzylic hydrogen, it will oxidize to benzoic acid.  I would also imagine the benzylic hydrogen be more reactive than the double bond, but this is also just at best a guess.

Benzylic H? H on the ring?

[macman104]

Benzylic is the carbon right next to the ring.  Benzyl

[THC]

Benzylic is the carbon right next to the ring.  Benzyl

Of course!

Thanks for your answers again