Question

What is X in the following reaction? 

 
 

• A. Butan-2-ol
• B. 2-methyl propan-2-ol
• C. 2-Methyl propan-1-ol
• D. Butan-1-ol

Hint:

Remember the S\(_N\)1 and S\(_N\)2 mechanisms for nucleophilic substitution reactions. Tertiary alkyl halides favor S\(_N\)1 reactions.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

1. Identify the reactant:

The reactant is a tertiary alkyl halide, 2-bromo-2-methylpropane.

2. Identify the reaction type:

The reaction involves an alkyl halide reacting with a strong nucleophile (OH\(^{-}\)).
Since the reactant is a tertiary alkyl halide, the reaction will proceed via an S\(_N\)1 mechanism.

3. S\(_N\)1 mechanism:

In an S\(_N\)1 reaction, the leaving group (Br\(^{-}\)) departs first, forming a carbocation intermediate.
The nucleophile (OH\(^{-}\)) then attacks the carbocation.
The product formed will have the OH group attached to the carbon that was bonded to the bromine.

4. Determine the product:

The carbocation formed is a tertiary carbocation.
The OH\(^{-}\) attacks the carbocation, resulting in the formation of 2-methylpropan-2-ol.

Therefore, X is 2-methylpropan-2-ol.

Final Answer:
2-methylpropan-2-ol.