Step 1: Grignard Reaction

Reacting benzaldehyde with phenyl magnesium bromide (PhMgBr) followed by water results in a Grignard addition reaction.

• Phenyl group (Ph⁻) acts as a nucleophile.
• It attacks the electrophilic carbon of the aldehyde group.
• After protonation, a secondary alcohol is formed: diphenylmethanol (Ph₂CHOH).

➤ Intermediate: Diphenylmethanol

Step 2: Oxidation with PCC (pyridinium chlorochromate)

The alcohol undergoes mild oxidation using PCC (in the presence of CrO₃ and pyridine).

• PCC oxidizes secondary alcohols to ketones.
• The hydroxyl group of diphenylmethanol is converted into a carbonyl group (C=O).

➤ Intermediate: Benzophenone (Ph₂CO)

Step 3: Oxidation with Na₂Cr₂O₇ / H₂SO₄

This step typically performs strong oxidation, especially of benzylic positions or alcohols. However:

• Benzophenone is a ketone and cannot be oxidized further under these conditions.
• Therefore, the molecule remains unchanged in this step.

➤ Final Product: Benzophenone (Ph₂CO)

Correct Option: A

Option A shows benzophenone, which is the correct final product.

✔️ Answer: Option A