The correct sequence according to acidity of alcohols is.
Correct answer: A. Primary > Secondary >Tertiary.
- A. Primary > Secondary >Tertiary.
- B. Tertiary > Secondary > Primary
- C. Secondary > Primary >Tertiary
- D. Primary < Secondary < Tertiary
Explanation
This sequence is due to the following factors:Inductive Effects: In primary alcohols, there are fewer alkyl groups attached to the carbon bearing the hydroxyl group (-OH). Fewer alkyl groups mean less electron-donating inductive effect, which stabilizes the alkoxide ion by making it less negative. In contrast, tertiary alcohols have more alkyl groups, which destabilize the alkoxide ion by donating electron density, thus making tertiary alcohols less acidic.Steric Effects: Tertiary alcohols are more sterically hindered, which makes it more difficult for solvent molecules to stabilize the alkoxide ion through hydrogen bonding. This steric hindrance also lowers the acidity.
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About Alcohols and Phenols
Alcohols are classified as primary, secondary or tertiary and studied through their hydrogen bonding, acidity, oxidation and reactions with active metals, acids and halogenating agents. Phenols require separate treatment because the hydroxyl group is attached to an aromatic ring, making their acidity and electrophilic substitution different from ordinary alcohols.
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