Asked in PMC Practice Test 25 (2021) 2021Moderate

When C-O bond breaks in alcohol, the most reactive is:

Correct answer: C. Tertiary alcohol

  • A. Primary alcohol
  • B. Secondary alcohol
  • C. Tertiary alcohol
  • D. Methanol

Explanation

Option C is correct as "tertiary alcohols" are more reactive because the increased number of alkyl groups increases the positive inductive effect. So, the charge density on the carbon atom increases and hence around the oxygen atom.

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About Alcohols

Alcohols contain a hydroxyl group attached to a saturated carbon atom and are classified as primary, secondary or tertiary. Their nomenclature, hydrogen bonding, acidity, oxidation, dehydration, reaction with sodium and conversion to haloalkanes are covered, along with the distinction between alcohols and phenols, where the hydroxyl group is attached directly to an aromatic ring.

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