Chapter 9.8, Problem 12P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The given alcohols are to be arranged in the increasing order of reactivity when dehydrated with ${\text{H}}_{\text{2}}{\text{SO}}_{\text{4}}$.

Concept introduction: Alcohols undergo dehydration reaction in the presence of strong acids like ${\text{H}}_{\text{2}}{\text{SO}}_{\text{4}}$ or $\text{p-toluenesulfonic}\text{acid}\left(\text{TsOH}\right)$ and yield alkenes. The more substituted alcohols dehydrate rapidly. This means the rate of dehydration for tertiary alcohols is comparatively higher than that of secondary and primary alcohols.