Read the passage carefully and answer the Questions.

Ethers with the general formula $C_nH_{2n+2}O$ and functional group C-O-C may be divided as symmetrical and unsymmetrical. Lower symmetrical ether may be obtained by the dehydration of alcohols at low temeratures in the presence of protic acids, such as $H_2SO_4$ and $H_3PO_4$ wheras at high temperature intramolecular dehydration takes place. Formation of ether from primary alcohols is also accompanied by the formation of small amount of alkenes. Due to the stearic hinderance, secondary and tertiary alcohols undergo elimination reaction rather than substitution reaction yielding alkene as major product. Ethers can also be obtained by heating alkyl halides with sodium or potassium alkoxides. Substituted Ethers (secondary & tertiary) can also be prepared using this method. If primary halides are replaced with secondary and tertiary halides, alkenes are the major products.

The major product in the following reaction is

Ethers

The correct answer is Option (2) → Ethers

The Chemistry of Alcohol Dehydration

The dehydration of alcohols using a protic acid (like $H_2SO_4$) is a temperature-dependent reaction. The outcome changes significantly based on how much heat is applied:

• At 140°C (Lower Temperature): The reaction favors intermolecular dehydration. Two molecules of alcohol react together to lose one molecule of water, resulting in the formation of an Ether ($R - O - R$).
• At 170°C (Higher Temperature): The reaction favors intramolecular dehydration. A single molecule of alcohol loses water internally to form an Alkene ($C = C$).

Evidence from the Image

1. Reactants: The image explicitly shows two alcohol molecules ($ROH + HOR$) reacting together.
2. Conditions: The temperature is specified as 140°C, which is the classic condition for ether synthesis.
3. The Passage: The text mentions that "Lower symmetrical ether may be obtained by the dehydration of alcohols at low temperatures... whereas at high temperature intramolecular dehydration takes place [to form alkenes]."

Conclusion:

Since the reaction is set at 140°C, the primary pathway is the substitution reaction yielding Ethers.