Question

The number of primary (1$^\circ$), secondary (2$^\circ$), and tertiary (3$^\circ$) alcohols possible for the formula C$_5$H$_{12}$O respectively are:

• A. 3, 3, 2
• B. 4, 2, 2
• C. 4, 3, 1
• D. 3, 4, 1

Hint:

Draw isomers of alcohols based on carbon skeletons and classify using carbon bonding: primary (1$^\circ$), secondary (2$^\circ$), tertiary (3$^\circ$).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

We analyze the number of possible isomeric alcohols with 5 carbon atoms.
Primary alcohols: 4 isomers possible
Secondary alcohols: 3 isomers possible
Tertiary alcohol: Only 1 isomer is possible (based on central carbon bonded to OH and three carbon chains)
So the answer is 4, 3, 1