An unknown alcohol is treated with the "Lucas reagent" to determine whether the alcohol is primary, secondary or tertiary. Which alcohol reacts fastest and by what mechanism:

Question

An unknown alcohol is treated with the "Lucas reagent" to determine whether the alcohol is primary, secondary or tertiary. Which alcohol reacts fastest and by what mechanism:, Secondary alcohol by S N 2, Tertiary alcohol by S N 2, Secondary alcohol by S N 1, Tertiary alcohol by S N 1

MARKS App · Accepted Answer

3° alcohol reacts fastest giving white turbidity immediately on adding Lucas reagent. Reaction takes place through carbocation formation involving S N 1 mechanism. Rate of reaction in this reaction is directly proportional to the stability of the carbocation formed. 3° R-OH(tertiary alcohol) forms 3° carbocation and therefore, the reaction is fastest.

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