Benzene reacts with CH3Cl in presence of anhydrous AlCl3 forms Toluene.
This reaction is called Friedel-Craft's alkylation.

Reaction of Benzene with CH3Cl in the Presence of Anhydrous AlCl3

When benzene reacts with CH3Cl in the presence of anhydrous AlCl3, a substitution reaction occurs where the chlorine atom of CH3Cl is substituted with a hydrogen atom of benzene. The product formed depends on the conditions of the reaction and the nature of the reagents.

Formation of Chlorobenzene

When anhydrous AlCl3 is used as a catalyst, the reaction between benzene and CH3Cl leads to the formation of chlorobenzene. The mechanism of the reaction involves the formation of an intermediate complex between AlCl3 and CH3Cl, which then reacts with benzene to form chlorobenzene.

Formation of Benzyl Chloride

However, if a large excess of CH3Cl is used, benzyl chloride is formed instead of chlorobenzene. This reaction occurs in two steps. First, an intermediate complex is formed between AlCl3 and CH3Cl, which then reacts with benzene to form a methylbenzyl cation. The methylbenzyl cation then reacts with another molecule of CH3Cl to form benzyl chloride.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the reaction of benzene with CH3Cl in the presence of anhydrous AlCl3 can lead to the formation of either chlorobenzene or benzyl chloride depending on the conditions of the reaction. This reaction is an important method for the synthesis of both chlorobenzene and benzyl chloride, which are important intermediates in the synthesis of various organic compounds.