Question

Which of the following statement is incorrect with Kolbe’s electrolytic method?

• A. It gives an alkane with even number of carbon atoms at the anode.
• B. At anode decarboxylation and formation of methyl radical occurs.
• C. Methane cannot be prepared by this method.
• D. At anode acetate ion accepts electrons to give acetate free radical.
• E. At cathode hydrogen gas is liberated.

Hint:

In Kolbe's electrolytic method, decarboxylation leads to the formation of alkane radicals at the anode, not the formation of acetate free radicals.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

In Kolbe's electrolytic method, fatty acids undergo decarboxylation at the anode, leading to the formation of alkane radicals. The acetate ion does not accept electrons to form a free radical, so statement (D) is incorrect. 
Thus, the correct answer is (D).