Question

If a mixture of iodomethane and iodethane is treated with sodium metal in presence of dry ether, it forms:

• A. Propane and ethane
• B. Ethane and butane
• C. Propane and butane
• D. Ethane, propane and butane

Hint:

The Wurtz reaction involves the coupling of alkyl halides with sodium metal to form alkanes.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Reaction.
The reaction of iodomethane (CH\(_3\)I) and iodethane (C\(_2\)H\(_5\)I) with sodium metal in dry ether leads to the formation of a mixture of hydrocarbons due to the Wurtz reaction. This reaction results in the formation of alkanes by coupling two alkyl groups. Thus, a mixture of ethane, propane, and butane is formed.

Step 2: Analyzing the options.
(A) Propane and ethane: Incorrect. While propane and ethane can form, butane is also formed in this reaction.
(B) Ethane and butane: Incorrect. Propane is also formed in this reaction.
(C) Propane and butane: Incorrect. Ethane is also formed in this reaction.
(D) Ethane, propane and butane: Correct. This is the correct mixture formed from the Wurtz reaction.

Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct answer is the formation of ethane, propane, and butane, corresponding to option (D).