The Lucas reagent will react fastest with: |
$\mathrm{(CH_3)_3COH} $ $\mathrm{CH_3CH_2OH} $ $\mathrm{CH_3(CH_2)_2OH} $ $\mathrm{CH_3CH(CH_3)OH} $ |
$\mathrm{(CH_3)_3COH} $ |
The correct answer is Option (1) → $\mathrm{(CH_3)_3COH} $ Lucas test distinguishes alcohols based on rate of formation of alkyl chloride via SN1 mechanism. Lucas reagent (ZnCl2 + conc HCl) reacts fastest with tertiary(3°) alcohols, typically producing immediate turbidity at room temperature due to the rapid formation of an insoluble tertiary alkyl chloride via an mechanism. Examples include 2-methylpropan-2-ol and tert-butyl alcohol. Reactivity order: Tertiary alcohol > Secondary alcohol > Primary alcohol Option 1: $(CH_3)_3COH$ This is tertiary alcohol (tert-butanol). Tertiary carbocation formed is highly stable. Hence reacts immediately with Lucas reagent. Option 2: $CH_3CH_2OH$ This is primary alcohol. Primary carbocation is unstable. Reaction is very slow. Option 3: $CH_3(CH_2)_2OH$ Also primary alcohol. Shows slow reaction. Option 4: $CH_3CH(CH_3)OH$ This is secondary alcohol. Forms moderately stable carbocation. Reacts slower than tertiary alcohol. |