Chapter 20, Problem 42A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The difference between primary, secondary and tertiary alcohols is to be discussed.

Concept introduction:

The general formula of alcohol is $R-OH$ .

The alcohols are named by using suffix ‘ol’.

Answer to Problem 42A

The alcohols are classified as primary, secondary and tertiary on the basis of nature of carbon atom attached to $-OH$ group.

If carbon containing $-OH$ is attached to only hydrogen or one carbon, then alcohol is primary.

If carbon containing $-OH$ is attached to two carbon atoms, then alcohol is secondary.

If carbon containing $-OH$ is attached to three carbon atoms, then alcohol is tertiary.

Explanation of Solution

1-pentanol is primary alcohol because functional group $-OH$ is attached to primary carbon.

  

2-pentanol is secondary alcohol because functional group $-OH$ is attached to secondary carbon.

  

2-methyl-2-butanol is tertiary alcohol because functional group $-OH$ is attached to tertiary carbon.

  

Conclusion