Which reaction does hydroquinone undergo most readily ?

Options

A. `S_N 2` subbstitution
B. Hydrolysis
C. Oxidation
D. Reduction

Answer

To determine which reaction hydroquinone undergoes most readily, we need to analyze the possible reactions it can participate in. Hydroquinone is a dihydroxybenzene with two hydroxyl (–OH) groups attached to a benzene ring.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Identify the Structure of Hydroquinone**:
Hydroquinone has the following structure:
```
OH
|
C6H4 - C6H4
|
OH
```
It has two hydroxyl groups attached to the benzene ring.

**Hint**: Remember that the presence of hydroxyl groups can influence the reactivity of the compound.

2. **Consider SN2 Substitution Reaction**:
In an SN2 reaction, a nucleophile attacks an electrophile, leading to the substitution of one group for another. However, hydroquinone has a stable aromatic system and the presence of double bonds makes it less favorable for SN2 reactions.

**Hint**: SN2 reactions are more favorable for alkyl halides rather than aromatic compounds.

3. **Evaluate Hydrolysis Reaction**:
Hydrolysis typically involves the reaction of a compound with water. In the case of hydroquinone, hydrolysis does not occur readily because hydroquinone is already a stable compound with hydroxyl groups.

**Hint**: Hydrolysis is often associated with breaking down larger molecules; consider if hydroquinone can be broken down.

4. **Analyze Oxidation Reaction**:
Hydroquinone can undergo oxidation. The hydroxyl groups can be oxidized to form quinones. This is a common reaction for compounds containing hydroxyl groups.

**Hint**: Look for reactions that involve the transformation of functional groups, such as alcohols to carbonyls.

5. **Consider Reduction Reaction**:
Reduction typically involves the addition of electrons or hydrogen. Hydroquinone does not have a suitable structure to undergo reduction effectively, as it is already in a reduced state.

**Hint**: Assess whether the compound can gain electrons or hydrogen; if it is already in a reduced form, reduction may not be feasible.

6. **Conclusion**:
After analyzing the possible reactions, we find that hydroquinone undergoes oxidation most readily. The presence of the hydroxyl groups allows for the conversion to quinones through oxidation.

**Final Answer**: Hydroquinone undergoes oxidation most readily.