Practicing Success

Target Exam

CUET

Subject

Chemistry

Chapter

Organic: Alcohols, Phenols and Ethers

Question:

Which test allows us to distinguish between the primary, secondary and tertiary alcohols?

Options:

Lucas test

Flame test

Lassaigne's test

None of the above 

Correct Answer:

Lucas test

Explanation:

The correct answer is option 1. Lucas test.

Lucas Test: It consists in treating the alcohols with Lucas reagent, i.e., mixture of concentrated hydrochloric acid and zinc chloride. Appearance of cloudiness in the reaction mixture will indicate the formation of alkyl chloride. A tertiary alcohol reacts immediately, a secondary alcohol reacts within five minutes and a primary alcohol does not react appreciably at room temperature.