Chapter 5, Problem 35P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The reactant in each given pair that more rapidly converted to the corresponding alkyl bromide on reaction with hydrogen bromide is to be identified.

Concept introduction:

The alcohols, on reaction with hydrogen halide, produced the corresponding alkyl halide.

The order of reactivity of alcohols is primary alcohol < secondary alcohol < tertiary alcohol.

The alcohols are classified based on type of carbon to which $\text{-OH}$ is attached.

In primary alcohol $\text{-OH}$ is bonded to a primary carbon which is directly attached to one other carbon.

In secondary alcohol $\text{-OH}$ is bonded to a secondary carbon which is directly attached to two other carbons.

In tertiary alcohol $\text{-OH}$ is bonded to a tertiary carbon which is directly attached to three other carbons.