Benzonitrile is treated with alkaline hydrogen peroxide (aqueous NaOH, H2O2) at mild temperature. The main product is

JEE Main levelSingle correct optionDifficulty 2 of 3ro043

Benzonitrile is treated with alkaline hydrogen peroxide (aqueous NaOH, $H X_{2} O X_{2}$ ) at mild temperature. The main product is

Under mild conditions, nitrile hydration stops at the amide stage:

C X_{6} H X_{5} CN C X_{6} H X_{5} CONH X_{2}

. Vigorous heating with acid or base would continue to the carboxylic acid.