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NEET CHEMISTRYAlcohols, Phenols and EthersEasy

Question

The reaction of an alkyl halide with a sodium alkoxide to form an ether (RX+RONaROR+NaXR-X + R'-ONa \rightarrow R-O-R' + NaX) is called:

A

Williamson synthesis

B

Williamson's continuous etherification process

C

Etard reaction

D

Gatterman-Koch reaction

Step-by-Step Solution

The reaction involving the nucleophilic substitution of a halide ion from an alkyl halide by an alkoxide ion to form an ether is known as Williamson synthesis.

  1. Mechanism: It follows an SN2S_N2 mechanism where the alkoxide ion acts as a nucleophile attacking the alkyl halide.
  2. Scope: It is used for the preparation of both symmetrical and unsymmetrical ethers. For best results, the alkyl halide should be primary, as secondary and tertiary alkyl halides favour elimination (dehydration) over substitution .
  3. Differentiation: 'Williamson's continuous etherification' typically refers to the acidic dehydration of alcohols to ethers, which is a different process.

Exam Context & Concepts Covered

This question aligns with the NEET CHEMISTRY syllabus, specifically targeting concepts from Alcohols, Phenols and Ethers. Mastering this topic is crucial for scoring well in the upcoming medical entrance examinations. Solving conceptually related problems will help you understand the nuances of these concepts and improve your problem-solving speed.

CHEMISTRYAlcohols, Phenols and Ethersreactionhalidesodiumalkoxiderightarrow

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