In the oxidation of 2-methylnaphthalene with ozone in acetic acid, the oxidant reacts mainly at the double bonds of the substituted aromatic ring to give peroxy compounds. In the presence of cobalt diacetate and sodium bromide, oxidation of the 2-methyl group occurs with formation of 2-naphthoic acid. The major product in the oxidation of 2-methylnaphthalene with ozonated transition metal compounds is 2-methyl-1,4-naphthoquinone.