Q.Write the structures of the following organic halogen compounds.
Concept understanding — Structural Isomerism
Structural Isomerism: The First Meeting
Imagine you have a box of identical Lego bricks — four red, ten blue, and six yellow. You build two different models: a car and a house. Both use exactly the same number of each colour brick, but the structures are completely different. That is the core idea of isomerism: same atoms, different arrangement.
In chemistry, molecules are not just a list of atoms. How those atoms are connected matters enormously. Two molecules can have the exact same molecular formula (same number of each atom) but be connected in different ways. Those are structural isomers (also called constitutional isomers).
The Precise Statement
Structural isomers are compounds that have the same molecular formula but different connectivity of atoms — that is, different structural formulas.
The key word is connectivity. Which atom is bonded to which? If you change that, you get a different substance with different physical and chemical properties.
A Concrete Example: C₄H₁₀
Take butane, C₄H₁₀. There are exactly two ways to connect four carbon atoms and ten hydrogen atoms:
- n-Butane — a straight chain: C–C–C–C
- Isobutane (2-methylpropane) — a branched chain: a central carbon bonded to three methyl groups
Both have formula C₄H₁₀. But n-butane boils at –0.5 °C, while isobutane boils at –11.7 °C. Same atoms, different connectivity → different substance.
Structural isomers are not the same molecule. They are distinct compounds that happen to share a molecular formula. You cannot rotate or flip one to get the other — you must break and reform bonds.
The Three Main Types
Structural isomerism comes in three flavours:
| Type | What changes | Example (C₃H₆O) |
|---|---|---|
| Chain isomerism | The carbon skeleton (straight vs. branched) | Butane vs. isobutane |
| Position isomerism | The location of a functional group or substituent | Propan-1-ol vs. propan-2-ol (OH on carbon 1 vs. carbon 2) |
| Functional group isomerism | The atoms are rearranged into a different functional group | Propanal (aldehyde) vs. propanone (ketone) — both C₃H₆O |
Do not confuse structural isomers with stereoisomers. Stereoisomers have the same connectivity but differ in spatial arrangement (like left and right hands). That is a completely different chapter. For now: structural isomers = different bond connections.
Why This Matters
Structural isomers can have wildly different properties. Ethanol (C₂H₆O) is a drinkable alcohol; its isomer dimethyl ether is a gas used as a refrigerant. Same atoms, but one is a liquid you can consume, the other is a gas that would kill you. That is why chemists care so much about connectivity — it determines everything.
Quick Check
Question: Are these structural isomers?
Molecule A: CH₃–CH₂–CH₂–CH₃
Molecule B: CH₃–CH(CH₃)–CH₃
Answer: Yes. Both are C₄H₁₀. A is n-butane (straight chain), B is isobutane (branched). Different connectivity → structural isomers.
The molecular formula must be identical. If the formulas differ, they are not isomers at all — just different compounds.
Structural isomerism is introduced in the NCERT/CBSE Class 11 Chemistry chapter on Organic Chemistry: Some Basic Principles and Techniques, and ‘structural isomerism examples class 11’ is a frequently searched important-question topic for board exams, JEE Main and NEET. Correctly distinguishing structural isomers by connectivity, rather than just matching molecular formulas, is a skill tested throughout competitive organic chemistry exams.
Why this formula?
Structural Isomerism: Why the Key Ideas Hold
Structural isomerism arises when molecules share the same molecular formula but differ in the connectivity of atoms. There is no single "formula" for structural isomerism — instead, the key is understanding why different arrangements are possible.
The Core Principle: Connectivity ≠ Composition
A molecular formula tells you how many of each atom are present, but not how they are joined. Structural isomers exist because atoms can form bonds in multiple distinct sequences while satisfying valency rules.
Why This Happens: The Valency Constraint
Each atom has a fixed bonding capacity (valency):
- Carbon: 4 bonds
- Hydrogen: 1 bond
- Oxygen: 2 bonds
- Nitrogen: 3 bonds
Example: For C4H10, the formula satisfies 4(4)+10(1)=26 valence electrons. But the carbon atoms can be arranged as:
- A straight chain: CH3−CH2−CH2−CH3 (n-butane)
- A branched chain: CH3−CH(CH3)−CH3 (isobutane)
Both satisfy valency, but the connectivity differs.
The "Formula" for Counting Isomers: Why It's Not Simple
There is no closed-form formula to count structural isomers for a given molecular formula. The number grows rapidly and depends on:
- Carbon skeleton branching possibilities
- Functional group positions
- Ring formation possibilities
Why No Simple Formula Exists
The problem is combinatorial — the number of possible trees (acyclic graphs) with n carbon atoms grows exponentially. For example:
- C4H10: 2 structural isomers
- C5H12: 3 structural isomers
- C6H14: 5 structural isomers
- C10H22: 75 structural isomers
The pattern follows Cayley's formula for trees, but even that counts only carbon skeletons — not functional group positions.
Key Reasoning: The Branching Principle
The fundamental reason structural isomers exist is that carbon chains can branch. Consider C5H12:
- Straight chain: C−C−C−C−C (n-pentane)
- One branch: C−C−C(C)−C (isopentane) — the branch can be at position 2 or 3, but these are identical due to symmetry
- Two branches: C−C(C)(C)−C (neopentane) — a quaternary carbon
Why position matters: The branch location changes the carbon's environment, altering physical and chemical properties.
The Functional Group Position Rule
For compounds with functional groups (e.g., alcohols CnH2n+2O), the position of the -OH group creates isomers:
- CH3CH2CH2OH (propan-1-ol) — OH at end
- CH3CH(OH)CH3 (propan-2-ol) — OH in middle
Why these are distinct: The OH group's position changes the carbon's hybridization environment and the molecule's polarity.
The Ring-Chain Isomerism Reason
For unsaturated formulas like C4H8, the same formula can represent:
- A straight alkene: CH2=CH−CH2−CH3
- A branched alkene: CH3−C(=CH2)−CH3
- A cycloalkane: cyclobutane (ring)
Why rings form: Carbon atoms can bond to form closed loops, reducing the number of hydrogen atoms needed. The formula CnH2n can be either an alkene (one double bond) or a cycloalkane (one ring).
Summary: The Takeaway
| Aspect | Why It Holds |
|---|---|
| Different connectivity | Atoms can bond in multiple sequences while satisfying valency |
| No simple counting formula | The number of possible trees grows combinatorially |
| Branching creates isomers | Carbon chains can have branches at different positions |
| Position matters | Functional groups at different locations change properties |
| Rings vs. chains | Same formula can represent open chains or closed rings |
The key insight: Structural isomerism exists because molecular formula is a constraint, not a blueprint — it tells you the ingredients, not the recipe.
Concept: Structural Isomerism & IUPAC Nomenclature
The key is to translate each IUPAC name into a correct structural formula by identifying the parent chain, substituents, and their positions.
Reasoning steps:
- Identify the parent chain (alkane, cycloalkane, or benzene ring) and number it according to the locants given.
- Attach the substituents (halogens, alkyl groups) at the specified carbon numbers.
- Check for stereochemistry where relevant (e.g., cis/trans in cyclohexane, E/Z in alkenes) — draw the most stable or unambiguous form.
- Write the condensed or bond-line structure clearly.
The structures are drawn below.
- 2-Chloro-3-methylpentane Parent: pentane (5 C chain). Cl at C2, CH3 at C3. CH3−CHCl−CH(CH3)−CH2−CH3
- p-Bromochlorobenzene Benzene ring with Br and Cl at para positions (1,4-). Br at C1, Cl at C4.
- 1-Chloro-4-ethylcyclohexane Cyclohexane ring. Cl at C1, ethyl (−CH2CH3) at C4. cis/trans not specified; draw one (e.g., trans).
- 2-(2-Chlorophenyl)-1-iodooctane Parent: octane (8 C chain). I at C1. At C2, a 2-chlorophenyl group (benzene ring with Cl at ortho position).
- 2-Bromobutane Parent: butane (4 C chain). Br at C2. CH3−CHBr−CH2−CH3
- 4-tert-Butyl-3-iodoheptane Parent: heptane (7 C chain). I at C3. tert-Butyl (−C(CH3)3) at C4.
- 1-Bromo-4-sec-butyl-2-methylbenzene Benzene ring. Br at C1, CH3 at C2, sec-butyl (−CH(CH3)CH2CH3) at C4.
- 1,4-Dibromobut-2-ene Parent: but-2-ene (4 C chain with double bond between C2 and C3). Br at C1 and C4. E/Z not specified; draw trans (more stable). BrCH2−CH=CH−CH2Br
The key idea is to translate each IUPAC name into a structural formula by identifying the parent chain, locating substituents with locants, and drawing the correct connectivity — including stereochemistry where implied. The final structures are given below.
Why this approach works
Drawing organic structures from IUPAC names is like following a set of building instructions. The name tells you three things: the parent chain (the longest carbon skeleton), the functional groups or substituents attached to it, and their positions (locants). The trick is to work systematically — start with the backbone, number it correctly, then attach each substituent at the right carbon. For cyclic compounds, the ring is the parent. For aromatic compounds, the benzene ring is the parent, and substituents are numbered to give the lowest locants.
Let’s go through each one.
-
2-Chloro-3-methylpentane
Parent chain: pentane (5 carbons).
Number from the end nearest the first substituent. Here, chloro is at C-2 and methyl at C-3.
Draw a 5-carbon straight chain:
C1−C2−C3−C4−C5
Attach Cl at C-2 and a methyl group (CH3) at C-3.
The structure:
CH3−CHCl−CH(CH3)−CH2−CH3
-
p-Bromochlorobenzene
“p-” means para — the two substituents are opposite each other on the benzene ring.
Benzene ring with Br at position 1 and Cl at position 4 (or vice versa — it’s the same compound).
Draw a hexagon with alternating double bonds. Attach Br to one carbon and Cl to the carbon directly opposite.
-
1-Chloro-4-ethylcyclohexane
Parent: cyclohexane (6-carbon ring).
Number the ring carbons so that the substituents get the lowest locants. Chloro at C-1, ethyl at C-4.
Draw a hexagon. At one carbon, attach Cl. At the carbon three steps away (counting around), attach an ethyl group (CH2CH3).
NoteIn cyclohexane, the ring is usually drawn as a regular hexagon. The exact stereochemistry (cis/trans) is not specified here, so just show the connectivity.
-
2-(2-Chlorophenyl)-1-iodooctane
Parent chain: octane (8 carbons).
Substituents: an iodine at C-1, and a 2-chlorophenyl group at C-2.
“2-Chlorophenyl” means a benzene ring with a chlorine at the 2-position (ortho to the point of attachment).
Draw an 8-carbon chain:
C1−C2−C3−C4−C5−C6−C7−C8
Attach I at C-1. At C-2, attach a benzene ring that has a Cl at the ortho position relative to the bond to C-2.
So the benzene ring is drawn with the attachment point at C-1 of the ring, and Cl at C-2 of the ring.
-
2-Bromobutane
Parent: butane (4 carbons).
Bromine at C-2.
CH3−CHBr−CH2−CH3
-
4-tert-Butyl-3-iodoheptane
Parent: heptane (7 carbons).
Substituents: iodine at C-3, and a tert-butyl group at C-4.
“tert-Butyl” is −C(CH3)3.
Draw a 7-carbon chain:
C1−C2−C3−C4−C5−C6−C7
Attach I at C-3. At C-4, attach a carbon that has three methyl groups:
C4−C(CH3)3
The full structure:
CH3−CH2−CHI−CH(C(CH3)3)−CH2−CH2−CH3
-
1-Bromo-4-sec-butyl-2-methylbenzene
Parent: benzene.
Substituents: Br at C-1, methyl at C-2, and a sec-butyl group at C-4.
“sec-Butyl” is −CH(CH3)CH2CH3.
Number the benzene ring so that the substituents get the lowest locants. Here, 1,2,4-trisubstituted.
Draw the benzene ring. At position 1, attach Br. At position 2 (adjacent), attach a methyl group. At position 4 (directly opposite C-1), attach the sec-butyl group:
−CH(CH3)CH2CH3
-
1,4-Dibromobut-2-ene
Parent: but-2-ene (4-carbon chain with a double bond between C-2 and C-3).
Bromines at C-1 and C-4.
The double bond is between C-2 and C-3.
Structure:
BrCH2−CH=CH−CH2Br
Watch outA common mistake is to put the double bond at the end. The name “but-2-ene” explicitly places the double bond between carbons 2 and 3. Also, the bromines are on the terminal carbons.
The structural formulas are: (i) CH3−CHCl−CH(CH3)−CH2−CH3 (ii) A benzene ring with Br and Cl para to each other (iii) A cyclohexane ring with Cl at C-1 and ethyl at C-4 (iv) I−CH2−CH(C6H4Cl-2)−(CH2)5−CH3 (v) CH3−CHBr−CH2−CH3 (vi) CH3−CH2−CHI−CH(C(CH3)3)−CH2−CH2−CH3 (vii) A benzene ring with Br at C-1, methyl at C-2, and sec-butyl at C-4 (viii) BrCH2−CH=CH−CH2Br
Structural Isomerism — Drawing Organic Halogen Compounds
Method: IUPAC Name-to-Structure Translation
This method uses the systematic IUPAC name to reconstruct the molecular structure step-by-step.
Steps
- Identify the parent chain (alkane, cycloalkane, or benzene ring) from the suffix.
- Number the parent chain according to locants given in the name.
- Add substituents (halogens, alkyl groups) at the specified positions.
- Check stereochemistry if indicated (cis/trans, E/Z, or wedge-dash bonds).
- Verify that the structure matches the name exactly.
(i) 2-Chloro-3-methylpentane
- Parent: pentane (5-carbon straight chain)
- Substituents: Cl at C-2, methyl at C-3
CH₃
|
Cl—CH—CH—CH₂—CH₃
|
CH₃
Structure: CH3CHClCH(CH3)CH2CH3
(ii) p-Bromochlorobenzene
- Parent: benzene ring
- Substituents: Br and Cl at para positions (1,4-)
(ring shown in the diagram above.)
Structure: 1-bromo-4-chlorobenzene
(iii) 1-Chloro-4-ethylcyclohexane
- Parent: cyclohexane ring
- Substituents: Cl at C-1, ethyl at C-4
(ring shown in the diagram above.)
Structure: Chlorine and ethyl group on opposite sides (trans) or same side (cis) — both are valid unless specified.
(iv) 2-(2-Chlorophenyl)-1-iodooctane
- Parent: octane (8-carbon chain)
- Substituents: I at C-1, a 2-chlorophenyl group at C-2
(chain + ring shown in the diagram above.)
Structure: ICH2CH(C6H4Cl)(CH2)5CH3
(v) 2-Bromobutane
- Parent: butane (4-carbon chain)
- Substituent: Br at C-2
CH₃—CH—CH₂—CH₃
|
Br
Structure: CH3CHBrCH2CH3
(vi) 4-tert-Butyl-3-iodoheptane
- Parent: heptane (7-carbon chain)
- Substituents: I at C-3, tert-butyl at C-4
CH₃—CH₂—CH—CH—CH₂—CH₂—CH₃
| |
I C(CH₃)₃
Structure: CH3CH2CHICH(C(CH3)3)CH2CH2CH3
(vii) 1-Bromo-4-sec-butyl-2-methylbenzene
- Parent: benzene ring
- Substituents: Br at C-1, methyl at C-2, sec-butyl at C-4
(ring shown in the diagram above.)
Structure: 1-bromo-2-methyl-4-(1-methylpropyl)benzene
(viii) 1,4-Dibromobut-2-ene
- Parent: but-2-ene (4-carbon chain with double bond between C-2 and C-3)
- Substituents: Br at C-1 and C-4
Br—CH₂—CH=CH—CH₂—Br
Structure: BrCH2CH=CHCH2Br
Note: This compound shows geometric isomerism (cis/trans). The structure above is the trans isomer unless specified otherwise.
Key Exam Tip
For structural isomerism questions, always:
- Draw the carbon skeleton first
- Add multiple bonds before substituents
- Check that each carbon has 4 bonds
Common Mistakes in Drawing Structures of Organic Halogen Compounds
Here are the most frequent errors students make with these compounds, along with how to avoid them.
1. Incorrect Parent Chain Selection (IUPAC Naming Errors)
Mistake: Choosing the wrong longest carbon chain, especially when halogens or alkyl groups are present.
Example from (iv): 2-(2-Chlorophenyl)-1-iodooctane
- Students often forget that the octane chain (8 carbons) is the parent, not the phenyl ring.
- They might draw a chain with only 6 or 7 carbons.
How to avoid:
- Always identify the longest continuous carbon chain that contains the principal functional group (here, the halogen).
- The suffix
-octanetells you the parent chain has 8 carbons. - The phenyl group is a substituent, not part of the main chain.
2. Misplacing the Substituent Position Number
Mistake: Assigning locant numbers incorrectly, especially when multiple substituents are present.
Example from (vi): 4-tert-Butyl-3-iodoheptane
- Students sometimes number from the wrong end, giving
4-tert-butylinstead of checking which end gives the lowest locant for the first substituent.
How to avoid:
- Number the parent chain so that the first substituent encountered gets the lowest possible number.
- Compare
3-iodo, 4-tert-butyl(locant set {3,4}) vs5-iodo, 4-tert-butyl(locant set {4,5}, from numbering the chain from the other end) — the first is correct because {3,4} beats {4,5} at the first point of difference.
3. Forgetting to Show Stereochemistry (cis/trans or E/Z)
Mistake: Drawing a flat structure for compounds that have geometric isomerism.
Example from (viii): 1,4-Dibromobut-2-ene
- The double bond (but-2-ene) can exist as cis or trans (E/Z) isomers.
- Students often draw only one isomer or ignore the geometry entirely.
How to avoid:
- For alkenes, always check if cis/trans or E/Z isomerism is possible.
- Draw the double bond with proper wedge/dash or zigzag representation.
- For
1,4-dibromobut-2-ene, both Br atoms can be on the same side (cis) or opposite sides (trans).
4. Incorrect Placement of Halogen on Aromatic Ring
Mistake: Misinterpreting prefixes like p-, o-, m- or numbering on benzene.
Example from (ii): p-Bromochlorobenzene
- Students sometimes place Br and Cl in meta or ortho positions instead of para (1,4).
How to avoid:
p-means para = positions 1 and 4 on the benzene ring.- Draw the ring, number carbons 1–6, and place Br at C1 and Cl at C4 (or vice versa — both are correct).
5. Confusing Alkyl Substituent Names (sec-butyl, tert-butyl)
Mistake: Drawing the wrong carbon skeleton for sec-butyl or tert-butyl.
Example from (vii): 1-Bromo-4-sec-butyl-2-methylbenzene
- Students often draw
sec-butylas a straight chain (n-butyl) or asisobutyl.
How to avoid:
- sec-butyl =
–CH(CH₃)CH₂CH₃(a branched 4-carbon group with the free bond on a secondary carbon) - tert-butyl =
–C(CH₃)₃(three methyl groups on a central carbon) - isobutyl =
–CH₂CH(CH₃)₂(different from sec-butyl!) - Memorize these structures:
| Name | Structure |
|---|---|
| n-butyl | –CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₃ |
| sec-butyl | –CH(CH₃)CH₂CH₃ |
| isobutyl | –CH₂CH(CH₃)₂ |
| tert-butyl | –C(CH₃)₃ |
6. Ignoring the Cyclohexane Ring Conformation
Mistake: Drawing cyclohexane as a flat hexagon without considering chair/boat forms or axial/equatorial positions.
Example from (iii): 1-Chloro-4-ethylcyclohexane
- Students often place both substituents on the same side (cis) when the name doesn't specify stereochemistry.
How to avoid:
- If the name does not specify cis/trans, draw the most stable conformation (usually trans for 1,4-disubstituted cyclohexane).
- For exam purposes, a planar hexagon with wedges/dashes is acceptable unless the question asks for chair form.
- Remember: 1,4-trans is more stable than 1,4-cis because both substituents can be equatorial.
7. Incorrect Carbon Count in the Parent Chain
Mistake: Miscounting carbons when drawing the skeleton.
Example from (v): 2-Bromobutane
- Students sometimes draw a 3-carbon chain (propane) or a 5-carbon chain (pentane).
How to avoid:
- The suffix
-butanemeans 4 carbons in the parent chain. - Count: C1–C2–C3–C4. Bromine is on C2.
- Draw:
CH₃–CHBr–CH₂–CH₃
8. Forgetting to Show All Bonds and Lone Pairs (When Required)
Mistake: Drawing condensed formulas when the question asks for structures (i.e., showing all bonds).
How to avoid:
- Read the question carefully: "Write the structures" usually means full structural formulas (all bonds shown).
- For aromatic compounds, show the Kekulé structure (alternating double bonds) or the circle representation, as per your exam board.
Quick Summary Table
| Compound | Common Mistake | Correct Approach |
|---|---|---|
| (i) 2-Chloro-3-methylpentane | Wrong parent chain (hexane instead of pentane) | Count 5 carbons; Cl at C2, CH₃ at C3 |
| (ii) p-Bromochlorobenzene | Ortho/meta placement | Para = 1,4 positions |
| (iii) 1-Chloro-4-ethylcyclohexane | Ignoring cis/trans | Draw trans (more stable) unless specified |
| (iv) 2-(2-Chlorophenyl)-1-iodooctane | Short parent chain | Octane = 8 carbons; phenyl is substituent |
| (v) 2-Bromobutane | Wrong carbon count | Butane = 4 carbons; Br at C2 |
| (vi) 4-tert-Butyl-3-iodoheptane | Wrong numbering | Number to give lowest locant (3-iodo, not 4-iodo) |
| (vii) 1-Bromo-4-sec-butyl-2-methylbenzene | Wrong sec-butyl structure | sec-butyl = –CH(CH₃)CH₂CH₃ |
| (viii) 1,4-Dibromobut-2-ene | Ignoring cis/trans | Show both possible isomers |
Final Tip: Always draw the carbon skeleton first, number it, then add substituents. Double-check the parent chain length and substituent positions before finalizing.
Showing the 12 most recent of 24 on this concept.
- TG EAPCET 2026Set eng-2026-05-10-AN1 markMCQQ.Consider the reactions (not balanced) BF3 + NaH 450 K A + NaF LiH + A → Li+[X]− The hybridisation involved in [X]− is (A) sp2 (B) sp3 (C) sp (D) dsp2
›Reveal solutionSolution
The reaction sequence produces diborane (B₂H₆) as intermediate A, which then reacts with LiH to form the tetrahydroborate ion [BH₄]⁻. In [BH₄]⁻, boron is sp³ hybridised, so the correct option is (B).
The key is to recognise that BF₃ reacts with NaH (a hydride donor) at high temperature to give diborane, B₂H₆ — a classic inorganic synthesis. Then diborane reacts further with LiH to form lithium borohydride, LiBH₄, which dissociates into Li⁺ and [BH₄]⁻. The hybridisation of boron in [BH₄]⁻ is determined by its four equivalent B–H bonds and no lone pairs.
- First reaction: BF₃ + NaH → A + NaF BF₃ is electron-deficient (only six electrons around B). NaH provides H⁻ ions. At 450 K, the reaction proceeds as:
2BF3+6NaH→B2H6+6NaF
(Balanced: each B gains three H⁻, but B₂H₆ forms via dimerisation of BH₃.)
So A = B₂H₆ (diborane).
- Second reaction: LiH + A → Li⁺[X]⁻ Diborane reacts with lithium hydride in a 1:2 molar ratio:
B2H6+2LiH→2LiBH4
This is a Lewis acid–base reaction: B₂H₆ acts as a Lewis acid (accepting H⁻) to form the tetrahydroborate ion.
So X⁻ = BH₄⁻ (tetrahydroborate or borohydride ion).
-
Determine hybridisation of B in [BH₄]⁻
Count electron domains around boron:
- Four B–H sigma bonds (each bond uses one electron from B and one from H).
- No lone pairs on boron. Total domains = 4 → tetrahedral geometry → sp³ hybridisation.
-
Check the options
(A) sp² – would give trigonal planar, not possible with four bonds.
(B) sp³ – correct.
(C) sp – linear, impossible.
(D) dsp² – square planar, requires d-orbital involvement, not needed here.
Watch outA common mistake is to think that BF₃ itself (sp²) carries through to the product. But the reaction with hydride completely changes boron’s coordination number from 3 to 4, forcing rehybridisation to sp³.
TipRemember: any boron species with four single bonds (like BH₄⁻, BF₄⁻) is always sp³ hybridised. The octet rule is satisfied, and geometry is tetrahedral.
✓Final answerThe correct option is (B).
ANSWER: B
- TG EAPCET 2026Set eng-2026-05-10-FN1 markMCQQ.Which of the following reaction is not correct regarding the products? (A) Sodium p-nitrophenoxide (benzene ring with −ONa and −NO2 para) + CH3Br⟶ p-nitroanisole (benzene ring with −O−CH3 and −NO2 para) + NaBr (B) p-Bromonitrobenzene (benzene ring with −Br and −NO2 para) + CH3ONa⟶ p-nitroanisole (benzene ring with −O−CH3 and −NO2 para) + NaBr (C) (CH3)3C−OC2H5+HI→(CH3)3C−I+C2H5OH (D) CH3CH2CH2OCH3+HBr→CH3CH2CH2OH+CH3Br
›Reveal solutionSolution
Three of the four equations are sound. The odd one out is the attempted Williamson synthesis on an aryl halide — aryl halides do not undergo SN2, so p-bromonitrobenzene + CH3ONa does not give p-nitroanisole under these conditions. Option (B).
The concept first
Two rules govern this whole question.
Rule 1 — Williamson's ether synthesis is SN2.
R−O−Na++R′−X ⟶ R−O−R′+NaX
The alkoxide/phenoxide attacks the back of the carbon carrying X. That carbon must therefore be sp3 and unhindered: methyl and primary halides work beautifully, secondary ones give elimination, tertiary ones fail completely — and aryl (or vinyl) halides do not react at all, because (i) the carbon is sp2, (ii) the C–X bond has partial double-bond character from lone-pair delocalisation and is therefore short and strong, and (iii) the π cloud repels the approaching nucleophile.
Rule 2 — ethers cleaved by HX. The oxygen is protonated first; then X− attacks whichever alkyl group can accept it most readily:
- if one group is 3∘ (or benzylic/allylic) ⇒ SN1: that group leaves as the stable carbocation and becomes the halide;
- if both groups are 1∘/methyl ⇒ SN2: X− attacks the less hindered carbon, which becomes the halide, and the bulkier group leaves as the alcohol.
Step-by-step through the options
(A) Sodium p-nitrophenoxide + CH3Br→p-nitroanisole + NaBr.
The nucleophile is the phenoxide; the electrophile is a methyl bromide — the ideal SN2 substrate. The alkyl halide (not the aryl ring) is being attacked, so this is textbook Williamson. Correct as written. ✓
(B) p-Bromonitrobenzene + CH3ONa→p-nitroanisole + NaBr.
Here the roles are reversed: the halogen sits on the benzene ring, and we are asking methoxide to displace it. That is exactly what an aryl halide will not do in a Williamson-type SN2 — the sp2 C–Br bond is strong, shortened by resonance, and the ring repels the incoming nucleophile. The correct way to make p-nitroanisole is route (A), attacking a methyl halide with the phenoxide. This is the incorrect reaction. ✗
(C) (CH3)3C−OC2H5+HI→(CH3)3C−I+C2H5OH.
Protonation of the ether oxygen is followed by loss of the very stable tert-butyl carbocation, which grabs I−; the ethyl group departs as ethanol. Exactly as written. Correct. ✓
(D) CH3CH2CH2−O−CH3+HBr→CH3CH2CH2OH+CH3Br.
Both groups are primary/methyl, so no carbocation can form and Br− attacks by SN2 at the less hindered methyl carbon. The methyl group therefore ends up as CH3Br, and the propyl group leaves as propan-1-ol. Exactly as written. Correct. ✓
✓Final answerAryl halides do not undergo the SN2 substitution required, so p-bromonitrobenzene with CH3ONa does not give the product shown — the correct option is (B).
ANSWER: B
- TG EAPCET 2026Set eng-2026-05-11-FN1 markMCQQ.1 mole of a hydrocarbon A(C5H10) on ozonolysis gives two compounds X and Y. Both X and Y respond to iodoform test. X gives test with ammoniacal AgNO3 solution but not with Y. What are X and Y respectively? (A) CH2O ; CH3COC2H5 (B) CH3CHO ; (CH3)2CO (C) (CH3)2C=O ; CH3CH=O (D) CH3COOH ; (CH3)2C=O
›Reveal solutionSolution
The key is that ozonolysis of a hydrocarbon with formula C₅H₁₀ (an alkene) cleaves the double bond to give two carbonyl compounds. Both must give a positive iodoform test (so each must be a methyl ketone or acetaldehyde), and only one gives a positive Tollens’ test (so only one is an aldehyde). The only pair fitting all clues is acetaldehyde (CH₃CHO) and acetone ((CH₃)₂CO), which corresponds to option (B).
Concept & Intuition
Ozonolysis of an alkene breaks the C=C bond, replacing it with two C=O bonds. The products are either aldehydes or ketones, depending on the substitution at the double bond.
The iodoform test is positive for compounds with a CH₃–C(=O)– group (methyl ketones) or for ethanol/acetaldehyde (CH₃CH₂OH or CH₃CHO). The Tollens’ test (ammoniacal AgNO₃) is positive only for aldehydes (and some α-hydroxy ketones, but not relevant here).
So we need two carbonyl compounds, each with a methyl group attached to the carbonyl carbon, and exactly one of them must be an aldehyde (the other a ketone). The original hydrocarbon C₅H₁₀ must be an alkene whose double bond, when cleaved, yields exactly such a pair.
Step-by-step reasoning
-
Identify the molecular formula constraint
The hydrocarbon A has formula C₅H₁₀. This is the general formula for an alkene (or a cycloalkane, but ozonolysis only works on alkenes). So A is an alkene with 5 carbons.
-
Ozonolysis outcome
Ozonolysis cleaves the double bond, adding an oxygen atom to each carbon of the original double bond. The sum of carbons in the two products equals the number of carbons in the alkene (5). So the two carbonyl compounds together contain 5 carbons.
-
Iodoform test condition
Both X and Y give a positive iodoform test. That means each must contain the CH₃–C(=O)– group. So each product is either:
- A methyl ketone (R–CO–CH₃), or
- Acetaldehyde (CH₃CHO), or
- Ethanol (but ethanol is not formed in ozonolysis; only carbonyls are).
Therefore, each product has at least 2 carbons (the methyl group + the carbonyl carbon). The smallest possible is acetaldehyde (C₂), and the next is acetone (C₃), etc.
-
Tollens’ test condition
X gives a positive Tollens’ test (ammoniacal AgNO₃), so X is an aldehyde. Y does not give this test, so Y is a ketone.
Since both give iodoform, X must be acetaldehyde (CH₃CHO) — the only aldehyde that gives the iodoform test. Y must be a methyl ketone.
-
Carbon count
If X is CH₃CHO (2 carbons), then Y must contain the remaining 3 carbons (since total = 5). A methyl ketone with 3 carbons is acetone: (CH₃)₂CO.
Check: Acetone gives iodoform test (positive) and does not give Tollens’ test (negative). Perfect.
-
Verify the original alkene
The alkene that gives CH₃CHO and (CH₃)₂CO upon ozonolysis must have the double bond between the carbon that becomes the aldehyde group and the carbon that becomes the ketone group. That alkene is 2-methyl-2-butene:
CH3–C(CH3)=CH–CH3
Ozonolysis cleaves the double bond to give:
CH3CHOand(CH3)2CO
This matches perfectly.
- Eliminate other options
- (A) CH₂O (formaldehyde) does NOT give iodoform test — wrong.
- (C) Lists the same compounds but swapped: acetone first, acetaldehyde second — but the question says X gives Tollens’ test, so X must be the aldehyde (acetaldehyde), not acetone. So order matters.
- (D) CH₃COOH (acetic acid) does not give iodoform test under normal conditions (it’s not a methyl ketone or acetaldehyde) — wrong.
Watch outA common mistake is to forget that the iodoform test is positive for acetaldehyde but not for other aldehydes. Also, the order of X and Y matters: X must be the aldehyde because it gives Tollens’ test.
TipRemember: The only aldehyde that gives the iodoform test is acetaldehyde (CH₃CHO). So if you see “both give iodoform, one gives Tollens’,” the aldehyde is always acetaldehyde.
✓Final answerThe correct option is (B).
ANSWER: B
-
- TG EAPCET 2026Set ap-2026-05-05-FN1 markMCQQ.The IUPAC name of the following compound is (CH3)3C−C(OH)(CH3)2 (A) 2, 3, 3 - trimethylbutan-2-ol (B) 2, 2, 3 - trimethylbutan-3-ol (C) 1, 1, 2, 2 - tetramethylpropan-1-ol (D) 2, 2, 3, 3 - tetramethylpropan-3-ol
›Reveal solutionSolution
The IUPAC name is determined by identifying the longest carbon chain containing the hydroxyl group, numbering it to give the hydroxyl group the lowest possible number, and then naming the substituents. The compound is 2,3,3-trimethylbutan-2-ol.
Concept and Intuition
Naming organic compounds using IUPAC (International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry) nomenclature follows a set of systematic rules to ensure each compound has a unique and unambiguous name. For alcohols, the core idea is to:
- Identify the parent chain: This is the longest continuous carbon chain that contains the carbon atom bonded to the hydroxyl (-OH) group.
- Number the parent chain: Start numbering from the end that gives the carbon atom bearing the -OH group the lowest possible number. If there's a tie, then number to give the substituents the lowest possible numbers.
- Identify and name substituents: Any carbon groups or other atoms attached to the parent chain that are not part of the main functional group are considered substituents.
- Assemble the name:
- List substituents in alphabetical order (ignoring prefixes like di-, tri-, etc., for alphabetization).
- Precede each substituent name with its position number on the parent chain.
- Use prefixes like "di-", "tri-", "tetra-" for multiple identical substituents.
- The parent chain name is derived from the corresponding alkane (e.g., "butane" for a 4-carbon chain).
- Replace the "-e" ending of the alkane name with "-ol" to indicate an alcohol.
- Insert the position number of the -OH group just before the "-ol" suffix.
Step-by-Step Solution
-
Draw the expanded structural formula:
The given condensed formula is (CH3)3C−C(OH)(CH3)2.
Let's break this down:
- (CH3)3C− indicates a carbon atom bonded to three methyl (CH3) groups. This is a tert-butyl group.
- −C(OH)(CH3)2 indicates another carbon atom bonded to one hydroxyl (-OH) group and two methyl (CH3) groups. These two central carbon atoms are bonded to each other. The expanded structure is:
CH3 | CH3 - C - C - OH | | CH3 CH3 | CH3 -
Identify the longest continuous carbon chain containing the -OH group:
The carbon atom bearing the -OH group is the one on the right in the structure above. Let's call it CX.
We need to find the longest path of carbon atoms that includes CX.
- Starting from one of the CH3 groups attached to the left carbon, going through the left carbon, then CX, and finally to one of the CH3 groups attached to CX: For example, \mathrm{CH}_3 - \mathrm{C}(\text{left}) - \mathrm{C_X} - \mathrm{CH}_3(\text{on C_X}). This chain has 4 carbon atoms. Any other path that includes CX will also result in a 4-carbon chain. Therefore, the parent chain is a butane derivative.
-
Number the parent chain:
The numbering must assign the lowest possible number to the carbon atom bearing the -OH group.
Let's consider the 4-carbon chain identified:
CH3 | CH3 - C - C - OH | | CH3 CH3 | CH3If we number from right to left:
C1 (CH3 on CX) - C2 (CX with -OH) - C3 (left carbon) - C4 (CH3 on left carbon)
In this numbering, the -OH group is on C2.
If we number from left to right:
C1 (CH3 on left carbon) - C2 (left carbon) - C3 (CX with -OH) - C4 (CH3 on CX)
In this numbering, the -OH group is on C3.
Since 2 is lower than 3, the numbering from right to left is correct. The -OH group is at position 2.
-
Identify and name substituents:
Using the correct numbering (right to left):
- The carbon at position 2 (CX) has one methyl group attached (in addition to the -OH and the chain carbon).
- The carbon at position 3 (the left carbon) has two methyl groups attached (in addition to the chain carbon). So, we have methyl groups at positions 2, 3, and 3.
-
Assemble the IUPAC name:
- The parent chain is butane.
- The hydroxyl group is at position 2, so it's a butan-2-ol.
- There are three methyl groups at positions 2, 3, and 3. This is written as "2,3,3-trimethyl". Combining these parts, the IUPAC name is 2,3,3-trimethylbutan-2-ol.
Comparing this with the given options:
(A) 2, 3, 3 - trimethylbutan-2-ol
(B) 2, 2, 3 - trimethylbutan-3-ol (Incorrect numbering for -OH)
(C) 1, 1, 2, 2 - tetramethylpropan-1-ol (Incorrect parent chain and number of substituents)
(D) 2, 2, 3, 3 - tetramethylpropan-3-ol (Incorrect parent chain and number of substituents)
The derived name matches option (A).
✓Final answerThe IUPAC name of the compound is 2,3,3-trimethylbutan-2-ol.
- TG EAPCET 2025Set eng-2025-05-02-AN1 markMCQQ.The product 'C' in the given reaction sequence is 3-bromonitrobenzene (m-OX2N−CX6HX4−Br) MgetherA(i) COX2(ii) HX3OX+B(i) Na(ii) NaOH+CaOC (A) Nitrobenzene (CX6HX5−NOX2) (B) Bromobenzene (CX6HX5−Br) (C) 3-bromobenzoic acid (m-Br−CX6HX4−COOH) (D) Sodium 3-bromobenzoate (m-Br−CX6HX4−COONa)
›Reveal solutionSolution
The Grignard is carboxylated to 3-nitrobenzoic acid, whose sodium salt is decarboxylated by soda lime — the −COONa is replaced by −H, leaving nitrobenzene: option (A).
The concept first
Three standard moves, in order.
1. Grignard formation. Mg in dry ether inserts into a carbon–halogen bond, reversing the polarity of that carbon: the once-electrophilic C−Br carbon becomes nucleophilic (CXδ−−MgXδ+Br).
2. Carboxylation. That nucleophilic carbon attacks the electrophilic carbon of COX2 (often used as dry ice), giving a carboxylate; HX3OX+ work-up then delivers the carboxylic acid. This is the classic way of adding one carbon to a skeleton.
3. Decarboxylation with soda lime. Heating the sodium salt of a carboxylic acid with NaOH + CaO (soda lime) expels the carboxyl carbon as carbonate and puts an H in its place:
R−COONa+NaOHCaO, ΔR−H+NaX2COX3
So the two steps 2 and 3 together add a carbon and then remove it — the net effect on the ring is simply that −Br has been replaced by −H.
Step 1 — A
m-OX2N−CX6HX4−BrMg, dry etherm-OX2N−CX6HX4−MgBr(A)
Step 2 — B
m-OX2N−CX6HX4−MgBr(i) COX2(ii) HX3OX+m-OX2N−CX6HX4−COOH(B=3-nitrobenzoic acid)
Step 3 — C
m-OX2N−CX6HX4−COOHNam-OX2N−CX6HX4−COONaNaOH+CaO, ΔCX6HX5−NOX2+NaX2COX3
The nitro group is untouched by soda lime, so C = nitrobenzene.
Step 4 — Check the distractors
Options (C) and (D) keep a bromine on the ring — but the bromine was consumed the moment the Grignard formed. Option (B), bromobenzene, would require the nitro group to vanish and the bromine to survive: the exact opposite of what happens.
✓Final answerC is nitrobenzene, which is option (A).
ANSWER: A
- TG EAPCET 2025Set eng-2025-05-03-FN1 markMCQQ.The correct statements about the products B and C in the given reactions are I. B and C are functional isomers II. With H2 | Catalyst B gives 1∘ amine and C gives 2∘ amine III. B on acid hydrolysis gives formic acid and C gives C3H6O2 IV. C forms isocyanate with HgO (A) II & III (B) II, III & IV (C) I, II & IV (D) I & III
›Reveal solutionSolution
The key is to identify B and C from the reaction sequence: B is an amide (N-methylformamide) and C is an isocyanide (methyl isocyanide). They are functional isomers. B gives a primary amine on reduction, C gives a secondary amine. B hydrolyses to formic acid and methylamine; C hydrolyses to methylamine and formic acid (giving C₃H₆O₂? No — careful). C does form an isocyanate with HgO. Only statements II and IV are correct, so the answer is (B).
Concept & Intuition
The problem presents a classic organic reaction: a primary amine (methylamine) reacting with chloroform and alcoholic KOH — the carbylamine reaction. This produces an isocyanide (C). Separately, the same amine reacts with an acyl chloride (or similar) to form an amide (B). The two products are functional isomers (same molecular formula, different functional groups: amide vs isocyanide). Their chemical properties — reduction, hydrolysis, and reaction with HgO — differ predictably. Let’s identify them and test each statement.
Step-by-step reasoning
- Identify B and C
- Methylamine (CH3NH2) reacts with HCOOH (formic acid) to give N-methylformamide (B):
CH3NH2+HCOOH→HCONHCH3+H2O
B is an amide, formula $C_2H_5NO$.- Methylamine with CHCl3 and alcoholic KOH gives methyl isocyanide (C):
CH3NH2+CHCl3+3KOH→CH3NC+3KCl+3H2O
C is an isocyanide, also $C_2H_5NO$.- They are functional isomers (same molecular formula, different functional groups). So statement I is true.
- Statement II: Reduction with H2/catalyst
- B (amide) reduces to a primary amine:
HCONHCH3+2H2catCH3NH2+CH3OH
Actually careful: reduction of an amide gives an amine — here $HCONHCH_3$ reduces to $CH_3NH_2$ (primary) + $CH_3OH$. So B gives a **1° amine**.- C (isocyanide) reduces to a secondary amine:
CH3NC+2H2catCH3NHCH3
(dimethylamine, a 2° amine).- So statement II is true.
- Statement III: Acid hydrolysis
- B (N-methylformamide) on acid hydrolysis:
HCONHCH3+H2OH+HCOOH+CH3NH2
Products: formic acid ($HCOOH$) and methylamine. No $C_3H_6O_2$ here.- C (methyl isocyanide) on acid hydrolysis:
CH3NC+2H2OH+CH3NH2+HCOOH
Again gives formic acid and methylamine — **not** $C_3H_6O_2$.- C3H6O2 could be propionic acid or methyl acetate, but neither appears. So statement III is false.
- Statement IV: C forms isocyanate with HgO
- Isocyanides react with yellow mercuric oxide (HgO) to give isocyanates:
RNC+HgO→RNCO+Hg
For methyl isocyanide: $CH_3NC + HgO \rightarrow CH_3NCO$ (methyl isocyanate).- This is a classic test for isocyanides. So statement IV is true.
- Which statements are correct?
- I: True
- II: True
- III: False
- IV: True
- So correct set: I, II, IV → option (C).
Watch outA common mistake is to think that amide reduction gives a secondary amine — it actually gives a primary amine (the nitrogen loses the carbonyl carbon). Also, hydrolysis of both B and C yields formic acid and methylamine, not a three-carbon acid.
TipThe carbylamine reaction is a surefire way to distinguish a primary amine from secondary/tertiary — only primary amines give the foul-smelling isocyanide.
✓Final answerThe correct option is (C).
ANSWER: C
- Identify B and C
- TG EAPCET 2025Set eng-2025-05-04-AN1 markMCQQ.In which of the following reactions, hydrogen is evolved? I. Reaction of sodium borohydride with iodine II. Oxidation of diborane III. Reaction of boron trifluoride with sodium hydride IV. Hydrolysis of diborane (A) I, IV only (B) I, II only (C) III, IV only (D) I, II, IV only
›Reveal solutionSolution
H2 is released only in the reaction of NaBH4 with iodine and in the hydrolysis of diborane — reactions I and IV. Correct option: (A).
I. NaBH4 + iodine — H2 evolved.
2NaBH4+I2→2NaI+2BH3+H2↑
Iodine oxidises the hydridic hydrogen, liberating H2.
II. Oxidation of diborane — no H2.
B2H6+3O2→B2O3+3H2O
Hydrogen is oxidised to water, not released as H2.
III. BF3 + sodium hydride — no H2.
2BF3+6NaH→B2H6+6NaF
The hydride is transferred to boron (forming diborane); no H2 gas forms.
IV. Hydrolysis of diborane — H2 evolved.
B2H6+6H2O→2H3BO3+6H2↑
Hydrogen is evolved in I and IV only.
✓Final answer(A) I, IV only.
- TG EAPCET 2025Set eng-2025-05-04-AN1 markMCQQ.What are X and Y in the following reaction sequence? Iso pentane KMnO4 X 20% H3PO4358 K Y (A) (CH3)2CH−CH(OH)−CH3 (3-methylbutan-2-ol) , (CH3)2CH−CH=CH2 (3-methyl-1-butene) (B) CH3CH2−C(CH3)2−OH (2-methylbutan-2-ol) , CH2=C(CH3)−CH2CH3 (2-methyl-1-butene) (C) CH3CH2−C(CH3)2−OH (2-methylbutan-2-ol) , (CH3)2C=CH−CH3 (2-methyl-2-butene) (D) CH3CH2−CH(CH3)−CH2OH (2-methylbutan-1-ol) , CH2=C(CH3)−CH2CH3 (2-methyl-1-butene)
›Reveal solutionSolution
KMnO4 oxidises the lone tertiary C–H of isopentane to give 2-methylbutan-2-ol (X); H3PO4 then dehydrates it by Saytzeff's rule to the trisubstituted 2-methylbut-2-ene (Y) — option (C).
The concept first
Two separate ideas are being tested.
- Selective oxidation of a tertiary C–H. Alkanes are inert to most reagents, but a tertiary C–H bond is the weakest (bond dissociation energy 3∘<2∘<1∘, because the resulting radical/cation is best stabilised by hyperconjugation). Cold alkaline KMnO4 therefore attacks only that hydrogen and converts it to −OH:
R3C−H KMnO4 R3C−OH
- Saytzeff's rule. In an acid-catalysed dehydration, the OH is protonated, water leaves to give a carbocation, and a β-hydrogen is then lost. When there is a choice, the β-H is taken from the carbon that yields the more highly substituted alkene, because more alkyl groups on the C=C means more hyperconjugation and a more stable product.
Step-by-step
Step 1 — draw isopentane. Isopentane is 2-methylbutane:
CH3−∣CCH3H−CH2−CH3i.e. (CH3)2CH−CH2CH3
It has exactly one tertiary carbon — C-2, bearing the single tertiary hydrogen.
Step 2 — oxidation gives X. KMnO4 replaces that tertiary H with OH:
(CH3)2CH−CH2CH3 KMnO4 (CH3)2C(OH)−CH2CH3
X=2-methylbutan-2-ol (a 3∘ alcohol)
This immediately kills options (A) (a 2° alcohol) and (D) (a 1° alcohol) — KMnO4 would not touch those weaker-reacting primary/secondary positions in preference to the tertiary one.
Step 3 — dehydration of X. With 20% H3PO4 at 358 K (mild conditions, which suffice precisely because X is tertiary):
(CH3)2C(OH)CH2CH3 H+ (CH3)2C+−CH2CH3+H2O
The 3∘ carbocation now loses a β-hydrogen. There are two kinds of β-H available:
- from one of the two CH3 groups ⇒ CH2=C(CH3)CH2CH3, 2-methylbut-1-ene (disubstituted, Hofmann product);
- from the CH2 of the ethyl group ⇒ (CH3)2C=CH−CH3, 2-methylbut-2-ene (trisubstituted, Saytzeff product).
Step 4 — apply Saytzeff. The trisubstituted alkene is the more stable, hence the major product:
Y=(CH3)2C=CH−CH3(2-methylbut-2-ene).
That rules out option (B), which pairs the right alcohol with the minor (Hofmann) alkene.
✓Final answerIsopentane → 2-methylbutan-2-ol (X) → 2-methylbut-2-ene (Y), so the correct option is (C).
ANSWER: C
- Selective oxidation of a tertiary C–H. Alkanes are inert to most reagents, but a tertiary C–H bond is the weakest (bond dissociation energy 3∘<2∘<1∘, because the resulting radical/cation is best stabilised by hyperconjugation). Cold alkaline KMnO4 therefore attacks only that hydrogen and converts it to −OH:
- TG EAPCET 2025Set eng-2025-05-04-FN1 markMCQQ.What are X and Y in the following reaction sequence? Iso pentane KMnO4 X 20% H3PO4358 K Y (A) CH3CH2−C(CH3)2−OH (2-methylbutan-2-ol) , CH2=C(CH3)−CH2CH3 (2-methyl-1-butene) (B) CH3CH2−CH(CH3)−CH2OH (2-methylbutan-1-ol) , CH2=C(CH3)−CH2CH3 (2-methyl-1-butene) (C) (CH3)2CH−CH(OH)−CH3 (3-methylbutan-2-ol) , (CH3)2CH−CH=CH2 (3-methyl-1-butene) (D) CH3CH2−C(CH3)2−OH (2-methylbutan-2-ol) , (CH3)2C=CH−CH3 (2-methyl-2-butene)
›Reveal solutionSolution
KMnO4 attacks the single tertiary C–H of isopentane, giving 2-methylbutan-2-ol (X); H3PO4 then dehydrates it, and Saytzeff's rule makes the trisubstituted 2-methylbut-2-ene the product (Y) — option (D).
The concept first
Two ideas are stacked in this one arrow-chain.
(i) Which C–H does KMnO4 attack? Alkanes are famously unreactive, but their C–H bonds are not equal: bond strength runs 3∘<2∘<1∘, because the intermediate formed at a tertiary carbon is best stabilised by the surrounding alkyl groups (hyperconjugation). KMnO4 therefore hydroxylates the tertiary position selectively:
R3C−H KMnO4 R3C−OH
(ii) Saytzeff's rule. Acid dehydration of an alcohol protonates the −OH, expels water to give a carbocation, then removes a β-hydrogen. Where there is a choice of β-H, the one that yields the more substituted, more stable alkene is preferred.
Step-by-step
Step 1 — the substrate. Isopentane is 2-methylbutane:
(CH3)2CH−CH2−CH3
C-2 is its only tertiary carbon, carrying the only tertiary hydrogen.
Step 2 — oxidation gives X.
(CH3)2CH−CH2CH3 KMnO4 (CH3)2C(OH)−CH2CH3
X=2-methylbutan-2-ol, a 3∘ alcohol.
That rules out option (C) (a secondary alcohol from a secondary C–H) and option (B) (a primary alcohol from a primary C–H) — KMnO4 would not choose a stronger C–H bond over the tertiary one.
Step 3 — dehydration to Y. With 20% H3PO4 at 358 K:
(CH3)2C(OH)CH2CH3 H+,−H2O (CH3)2C+−CH2CH3
Two different β-hydrogens are available:
- from a CH3 group ⇒ CH2=C(CH3)CH2CH3 — 2-methylbut-1-ene, disubstituted;
- from the CH2 of the ethyl group ⇒ (CH3)2C=CHCH3 — 2-methylbut-2-ene, trisubstituted.
Step 4 — Saytzeff picks the winner. The trisubstituted alkene has more hyperconjugative structures and is the more stable, so it is the major product:
Y=(CH3)2C=CH−CH3 (2-methylbut-2-ene).
Option (A) pairs the correct alcohol with the minor (Hofmann) alkene, so it is out.
✓Final answerIsopentane → 2-methylbutan-2-ol (X) → 2-methylbut-2-ene (Y), so the correct option is (D).
ANSWER: D
- TG EAPCET 2025Set ap-2025-04-29-FN1 markMCQQ.The reaction/s which represent the production of diborane on an industrial scale is/are I. 4BF3+3LiAlH4→2B2H6+3LiF+3AlF3 II. 2NaBH4+I2→B2H6+2NaI+H2 III. 2BF3+6NaH450KB2H6+6NaF The correct option is (A) III only (B) I, II only (C) I only (D) I, III only
›Reveal solutionSolution
The key idea is that industrial-scale production of diborane must be economical and scalable. Among the given reactions, only those using inexpensive, bulk reagents (like NaH) qualify. The correct industrial method is reaction III, so the answer is (A).
The question asks which reactions represent the industrial-scale production of diborane (B2H6). This is not about whether a reaction works in a lab — it’s about which one is actually used in large-scale manufacturing. The distinction lies in cost, availability of reagents, and practicality.
-
Reaction I: 4BF3+3LiAlH4→2B2H6+3LiF+3AlF3
Lithium aluminium hydride (LiAlH4) is a powerful reducing agent, but it is expensive and difficult to handle on a large scale. It is used in laboratory syntheses, not in industry. So this is not an industrial method.
-
Reaction II: 2NaBH4+I2→B2H6+2NaI+H2
Sodium borohydride (NaBH4) is cheaper than LiAlH4, but iodine (I2) is costly and the reaction produces hydrogen gas, which is a safety hazard. This method is used for small-scale preparation, not industrially.
-
Reaction III: 2BF3+6NaH450KB2H6+6NaF
Sodium hydride (NaH) is inexpensive and readily available. The reaction is carried out at a moderate temperature (450 K) and yields diborane directly. This is the standard industrial process for diborane production.
Watch outA common mistake is to think that any reaction producing diborane qualifies as industrial. The key is cost and scalability — reactions using LiAlH4 or I2 are not economical on a large scale.
TipRemember: In industrial chemistry, the cheapest and safest reagents win. NaH is much cheaper than LiAlH₄ or I₂, making reaction III the only practical choice.
✓Final answerThe correct option is (A) III only.
-
- TG EAPCET 2025Set ap-2025-04-29-FN1 markMCQQ.An alcohol ‘X’ (C4H10O) reacts with conc. HCl at room temperature and gets converted to corresponding chloride. ‘X’ on dehydration followed by ozonolysis gave ‘Y’ and ‘Z’. What are ‘Y’ and ‘Z’ respectively? (A) Acetone; Formaldehyde (B) Propionaldehyde; Formaldehyde (C) Acetaldehyde; Acetaldehyde (D) Propionaldehyde; Formic acid
›Reveal solutionSolution
Alcohol 'X' is identified as a tertiary alcohol (2-methylpropan-2-ol) due to its rapid reaction with conc. HCl at room temperature. Its dehydration yields 2-methylpropene, which upon ozonolysis gives Acetone and Formaldehyde.
The problem describes a sequence of reactions starting from an alcohol 'X' with the molecular formula C4H10O. We need to identify 'X' first, then trace its reactions through dehydration and ozonolysis to find the final products 'Y' and 'Z'. The key to solving this problem lies in understanding the characteristic reactions of different types of alcohols and the mechanism of ozonolysis.
Concept and Intuition
- Reactivity with conc. HCl: Alcohols react with hydrogen halides (like HCl) to form alkyl halides. The rate of this reaction depends on the type of alcohol: tertiary alcohols react fastest (often at room temperature) via an SN1 mechanism due to the stability of the tertiary carbocation intermediate. Secondary alcohols react slower, and primary alcohols require heating. This information is crucial for identifying the structure of 'X'.
- Dehydration of Alcohols: Alcohols undergo dehydration in the presence of an acid catalyst (like conc. H2SO4) and heat to form alkenes. The -OH group is removed from one carbon, and a hydrogen atom is removed from an adjacent carbon. If multiple alkenes can form, Zaitsev's rule generally predicts the most substituted alkene as the major product.
- Ozonolysis of Alkenes: Ozonolysis is a powerful reaction used to cleave carbon-carbon double bonds. In reductive ozonolysis (which is typically implied unless oxidative conditions are specified), the alkene is treated with ozone (O3) followed by a reducing agent (like Zn/H2O or Me2S). This process breaks the double bond and forms two carbonyl compounds (aldehydes or ketones). The structure of these carbonyl products directly reveals the structure of the original alkene.
By applying these concepts sequentially, we can deduce the structures of 'X', the intermediate alkene, and finally 'Y' and 'Z'.
Step-by-step Derivations
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Identify Alcohol 'X' (C4H10O):
The molecular formula C4H10O corresponds to a saturated monohydric alcohol. There are four possible structural isomers for C4H10O:
- Butan-1-ol (primary alcohol)
- Butan-2-ol (secondary alcohol)
- 2-Methylpropan-1-ol (primary alcohol)
- 2-Methylpropan-2-ol (tertiary alcohol)
The problem states that alcohol 'X' reacts with conc. HCl at room temperature to form the corresponding chloride. This rapid reaction at room temperature is characteristic of a tertiary alcohol. Primary and secondary alcohols react much slower, often requiring heating.
Therefore, 'X' must be 2-methylpropan-2-ol (also known as tert-butyl alcohol).
CH3∣CH3−C−OH∣CH3conc. HCl, room temp.CH3∣CH3−C−Cl∣CH3+H2O
- Dehydration of 'X': Alcohol 'X' (2-methylpropan-2-ol) undergoes dehydration when heated with a strong acid (like conc. H2SO4 or H3PO4). The -OH group is removed from the carbon bearing it, and a hydrogen atom is removed from an adjacent carbon. In 2-methylpropan-2-ol, all three adjacent carbons are methyl groups, so removing a hydrogen from any of them yields the same alkene.
CH3∣CH3−C−OH∣CH3DehydrationCH3∣CH3−C=CH2+H2O
The alkene formed is 2-methylpropene.3. Ozonolysis of the Alkene:
The alkene, 2-methylpropene, undergoes ozonolysis. In this reaction, the carbon-carbon double bond is cleaved, and oxygen atoms are inserted at the site of the original double bond, forming carbonyl compounds.
CH3∣CH3−C=CH21. O3 / 2. Zn, H2OCH3∣CH3−C=O+O=CH2
The products 'Y' and 'Z' are propan-2-one (commonly known as acetone) and methanal (commonly known as formaldehyde). * **Y:** Acetone ($\text{CH}_3\text{COCH}_3$) * **Z:** Formaldehyde ($\text{HCHO}$)4. Match with Options:
Comparing our derived products 'Y' (Acetone) and 'Z' (Formaldehyde) with the given options:
(A) Acetone; Formaldehyde
(B) Propionaldehyde; Formaldehyde
(C) Acetaldehyde; Acetaldehyde
(D) Propionaldehyde; Formic acid
Our results match option (A).✓Final answerThe products 'Y' and 'Z' are Acetone and Formaldehyde, respectively, making the correct option (A).
- TG EAPCET 2024Set eng-2024-05-09-AN1 markMCQQ.Consider the following reactions (not balanced)
[!FORMULA] BF3+NaH450KX+NaF
[!FORMULA] X+H2O→Y+H2↑
The correct statements about X and Y are I) X is an electron deficient molecule II) In X, B–B bond is present III) Y is a weak tribasic acid IV) Y acts as a Lewis acid (A) I & IV (B) II & III (C) II & IV (D) I & III›Reveal solutionSolution
The reaction of BF₃ with NaH at 450 K produces diborane (B₂H₆, X), which hydrolyzes to boric acid (H₃BO₃, Y). Diborane has a B–B bond and is electron‑deficient; boric acid is a weak tribasic acid but acts as a Lewis acid. Thus statements II, III, and IV are correct, but only II & III are listed together — the correct option is (B).
Concept & Intuition
This problem tests your knowledge of boron hydride chemistry. Boron is electron‑deficient (only 3 valence electrons), so simple boranes like BH₃ are unstable. Under high‑temperature reduction with NaH, BF₃ forms diborane (B₂H₆), a classic electron‑deficient molecule with a unique three‑center two‑electron B–H–B bridge bond. Diborane reacts violently with water to give boric acid (H₃BO₃) and hydrogen gas. Boric acid is a weak acid that accepts hydroxide ions (acting as a Lewis acid) rather than donating protons directly.
Step‑by‑Step Reasoning
- Identify X from the first reaction The reaction is:
BF3+NaH450KX+NaF
NaH is a strong hydride donor (H⁻). BF₃ is electron‑deficient and accepts hydride ions. At 450 K, the product is diborane (B₂H₆). The balanced equation is:
2BF3+6NaH450KB2H6+6NaF
So X = B₂H₆ (diborane).
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Analyze statement I: “X is an electron‑deficient molecule”
Diborane has 12 valence electrons (3 from each B × 2 = 6, plus 1 from each H × 6 = 6). For 8 atoms, a normal Lewis structure would require 8×2 = 16 electrons for all single bonds. With only 12, it is electron‑deficient. It uses three‑center two‑electron bonds (B–H–B bridges) to compensate.
→ Statement I is true.
-
Analyze statement II: “In X, B–B bond is present”
In diborane, the two boron atoms are connected via two bridging hydrogen atoms, not by a direct B–B bond. The B–B distance is ~1.77 Å, but there is no conventional sigma bond; the bonding is through the B–H–B bridges. However, many textbooks consider the B–B interaction as a “banana bond” or partial bond. In standard JEE/NEET context, diborane is said to have a B–B bond (a direct B–B bond is not present, but the question often treats the B–B linkage as present due to the electron‑deficient bonding). Let’s check carefully:
- In diborane, each boron is sp³ hybridized, and the two borons are held together by two three‑center two‑electron bonds. There is no direct B–B sigma bond.
- However, many exam sources (including NCERT) state that “diborane has a B–B bond” in the sense of a B–B linkage. Actually, the correct fact is: there is no direct B–B bond; the bonding is via bridges.
- But wait — the problem is from a typical multiple‑choice test. In such tests, statement II is often considered true because diborane is described as having a B–B bond in some simplified representations. Let’s verify with the hydrolysis product: if there were no B–B bond, hydrolysis would give BH₃, but it gives B₂H₆ → H₃BO₃. The B–B bond is not present in the usual sense, but the question likely expects it to be true based on common teaching. → Statement II is true (in the context of this problem).
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Identify Y from the second reaction
B2H6+H2O→Y+H2↑
Diborane hydrolyzes vigorously:
B2H6+6H2O→2H3BO3+6H2
So Y = H₃BO₃ (boric acid).
- Analyze statement III: “Y is a weak tribasic acid” Boric acid is not a proton‑donor acid; it acts as a Lewis acid by accepting OH⁻:
H3BO3+H2O⇌[B(OH)4]−+H+
It is monobasic (only one H⁺ is released per molecule), not tribasic. However, it is often called a weak acid. The term “tribasic” is incorrect because it does not donate three protons.
→ Statement III is false.
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Analyze statement IV: “Y acts as a Lewis acid”
Boric acid has an empty p orbital on boron, so it can accept a lone pair from OH⁻ (or other Lewis bases). This is exactly why it behaves as an acid in water — it accepts OH⁻, not donates H⁺.
→ Statement IV is true.
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Match the true statements to the options
True: I, II, IV.
Options:
(A) I & IV → missing II
(B) II & III → III is false
(C) II & IV → missing I
(D) I & III → III is false
None of the options list I, II, and IV together. But the problem asks “The correct statements about X and Y are” and then gives pairs. Since III is false, any option containing III is wrong. That leaves (A) and (C). Both (A) and (C) contain only two statements, but we have three true statements. This suggests that perhaps statement II is considered false in the official answer? Let’s re‑examine.
Watch outMany students mistakenly think diborane has a direct B–B bond. In reality, diborane has no direct B–B sigma bond; the boron atoms are connected via two bridging hydrogens. In rigorous chemistry, statement II is false. If the exam follows strict IUPAC bonding, then only I and IV are true → option (A). This is the most common answer in such problems.
Thus, the intended correct set is I & IV.
✓Final answerThe correct option is (A).
ANSWER: A
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