Which one is least reactive towards reaction with Na?
Correct answer: C. CH3OCH3 (Diethyl Ether)
- A. HCOOH (Formic Acid)
- B. CH3CH2COOH (Propanoic Acid)
- C. CH3OCH3 (Diethyl Ether)
- D. CH3COOH (Acetic Acid)
Explanation
The correct answer is CH3OCH3 (Diethyl Ether). Diethyl ether does not contain an active hydrogen atom that sodium can displace, unlike carboxylic acids such as formic acid (HCOOH), propanoic acid (CH3CH2COOH), and acetic acid (CH3COOH). These acids have a hydrogen atom in their carboxyl group that reacts with sodium to release hydrogen gas, making them more reactive than diethyl ether when reacted with sodium.
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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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