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While the reaction between benzyl chloride and acetone in the presence of sodium hydroxide could potentially lead to the formation of phenylacetone, it's not the most straightforward or efficient synthesis. The reaction would likely result in a complex mixture of products due to the possibility of side reactions, including aldol condensation and elimination reactions. Purification by distillation might be challenging given the potential presence of multiple volatile compounds. A more controlled and selective synthetic pathway is typically preferred for the synthesis of phenylacetone.