Compound `Ph-O-overset(O)overset("||")C-Ph` can be prepared by the reaction of _______ .

Options

A. phenol and benzoic acid in the presence of NaOH
B. phenol and benzoyl chloride in the presence of pyridine
C. phenol and benzoyl chloride in the presence of `ZnCl_(2)`
D. phenol and benzaldehyde in the presence of palladium

Answer

To solve the question regarding the preparation of the compound `Ph-O-C(=O)-Ph` (phenyl benzoate), we can follow these steps:

### Step 1: Identify the Structure
The compound `Ph-O-C(=O)-Ph` consists of a phenyl group (Ph) attached to an oxygen (O) which is further connected to a carbonyl group (C=O) and another phenyl group. This structure is known as phenyl benzoate.

### Step 2: Determine Possible Reactions
To prepare phenyl benzoate, we need to consider the types of reactions that can form esters. One common method is the reaction between a phenol and an acyl chloride (acid chloride).

### Step 3: Analyze the Given Options
1. **Option 1**: Phenol and Benzoic Acid
- This reaction cannot proceed because benzoic acid cannot act as an electrophile in this context.

2. **Option 2**: Phenol and Benzoyl Chloride
- This is a viable option. Phenol can act as a nucleophile, and benzoyl chloride can provide the electrophile needed for the reaction. The reaction would yield phenyl benzoate.

3. **Option 3**: Involves ZnCl2
- This option is incorrect as it does not provide the necessary reactants to form phenyl benzoate.

4. **Option 4**: Phenol and Benzaldehyde
- This option is also incorrect because benzaldehyde cannot provide a suitable electrophile for the nucleophilic attack by phenol.

### Step 4: Conclusion
The correct answer is **Option 2: Phenol and Benzoyl Chloride** in the presence of a base like pyridine, which facilitates the reaction by deprotonating phenol to form a more reactive nucleophile.

### Final Answer
Compound `Ph-O-C(=O)-Ph` can be prepared by the reaction of **Phenol and Benzoyl Chloride**.

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