Synthesis of 5,5-diphenylhydantoin. Step 1: Benzoin Condensation. What is the role of NaOH in this reaction? Support your answer using a reaction mechanism.
a) NaOH acts as a base to deprotonate benzoin, leading to the formation of benzoin anion.
b) NaOH acts as a catalyst to accelerate the condensation reaction.
c) NaOH reacts with benzoin to form a complex intermediate necessary for hydantoin synthesis.
d) NaOH neutralizes the acidic byproducts of the condensation reaction.
