Question

Which of the tests discussed in this experiment you would use to distinguish between the following pairs of compounds. Describe, in one sentence exactly what you would observe doing that test.

1. 2-bromobutane and 2-chlorobutane

2. Isopropyl alcohol and n-propanol

3. 1-butanol and 1-octanol

4. Butyl amine and butanic acid

Answer 1

1) 2-bromobutane and 2-chlorobutane can be distinguished using AgNO3 test. Alkyl bromides reacts rapidly with AgNO3 to form a precipitate while Chlorides reacts slowly or on warming

2. Isopropyl alcohol and n-propanol can be distinguished using Tollen's test. n-propanol is a primary alcohol and oxidizes to form aldehyde and precipitates Ag while Isopropyl alcohol, a secondary alcohol oxidizes to ketone do not give positive test

3. 1-butanol and 1-octanol can be distinguished using solubility in water. 1-butanol slightly soluble in water and forms turbid solution while 1-octanol is immicible and remains as separate layer

4. Butyl amine and butanic acid can be distinguished using saturated sodium bicarbonate solution. Butanoic acid on adding NaHCO3 evolves CO2 gas while amine do not react