Start Learning Free

Before You Begin

Question #44405

Difficulty: 8/10 | 🟢 Free

The Question

An optically active haloalkane X\textbf{X}, \ce{CH3CH(Br)C(CH3)3}, is treated with potassium \textit{tert}-butoxide in \textit{tert}-butanol at 350 K350\text{ K} to yield a major organic product Y\textbf{Y}. Subsequent treatment of Y\textbf{Y} with anhydrous \ce{HI} yields compound Z\textbf{Z} as the major product. Which of the following correctly identifies Y\textbf{Y} and Z\textbf{Z}?

Options

  • A.

    Y\textbf{Y} = 2-(\textit{tert}-butoxy)-3,3-dimethylbutane ; Z\textbf{Z} = 2-iodo-3,3-dimethylbutane

  • B.

    Y\textbf{Y} = 3,3-dimethyl-1-butene ; Z\textbf{Z} = 2-iodo-3,3-dimethylbutane

  • C.

    Y\textbf{Y} = 3,3-dimethyl-1-butene ; Z\textbf{Z} = 2-iodo-2,3-dimethylbutane

  • D.

    Y\textbf{Y} = 2,3-dimethyl-2-butene ; Z\textbf{Z} = 2-iodo-2,3-dimethylbutane

Check Your Answer

Correct Answer

Step-by-Step Solution

Explanation

How the Examiner Thinks

Mechanism_Trap

Don't get tricked by the process! Learn the mechanical traps used in competitive exam questions.

Concepts Behind This Question

Williamson Ether Synthesis Constraints|Ether Cleavage Patterns|E1/E2 Solvent and Base Effects

Why This Question Is Tricky

Common Mistakes

This problem tests three critical mechanistic traps.

First, it traps students who default to Williamson Ether Synthesis (SN2) instead of recognizing that a bulky base with a hindered 2∘2^\circ halide exclusively drives E2 elimination.

Second, it traps students who incorrectly apply carbocation rearrangements to the concerted E2 pathway, falsely predicting the Zaitsev alkene (2,3-dimethyl-2-butene).

Finally, it tests the electrophilic addition of HI to the correct terminal alkene, requiring the recognition of a 1,2-methanide shift to yield the rearranged alkyl iodide.

Option C is the only path that correctly applies E2 kinetics followed by carbocation thermodynamics.

Quick Facts About This Question

Question Information

SubjectChemistry
ChapterAlcohols, Phenols, and Ethers - Class 12
ConceptEther Cleavage Patterns
Difficulty8
Cognitive Load7
Target Solve Time160 sec
AccessFree