Hydrocarbons like benzene are metabolized in the body to arene oxides, which rearrange to form phenols. This is an example of a general process in the body, in which an unwanted compound (benzene) is converted to a more watersoluble derivative called a metabolite, so that it can be excreted more readily from the body.a. Classify each of these reactions as oxidation, reduction, or neither.b. Explain why phenol is more water soluble than benzene. This means that phenol dissolves in urine, which is largelywater, to a greater extent than benzene.

Chemistry for Today: General, Organic, and Biochemistry
9th Edition
ISBN:9781305960060
Author:Spencer L. Seager, Michael R. Slabaugh, Maren S. Hansen
Publisher:Spencer L. Seager, Michael R. Slabaugh, Maren S. Hansen
Chapter13: Alcohols, Phenols, And Ethers
Section: Chapter Questions
Problem 13.54E: Alcohols and thiols can both be oxidized in a controlled way. What are the differences in the...
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Hydrocarbons like benzene are metabolized in the body to arene oxides, which rearrange to form phenols. This is an example of a general process in the body, in which an unwanted compound (benzene) is converted to a more watersoluble derivative called a metabolite, so that it can be excreted more readily from the body.
a. Classify each of these reactions as oxidation, reduction, or neither.
b. Explain why phenol is more water soluble than benzene. This means that phenol dissolves in urine, which is largely
water, to a greater extent than benzene.

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