Q46 / 150 · MHT CET 2024 (11 May Shift 1) · Chemistry

Which from following is called as Lucas reagent?

  • Correct answer
    A
    Conc. $\mathrm{HCl}+\mathrm{ZnCl}_2$
  • B
    Neutral $\mathrm{FeCl}_3$ solution in water
  • C
    $\mathrm{NaNO}_2+\mathrm{HCl}($ dil. $)$
  • D
    $\mathrm{CHCl}_3+\mathrm{NaOH}$

Solution

Lucas reagent is a mixture of concentrated hydrochloric acid $(\mathrm{HCl})$ and zinc chloride $\left(\mathrm{ZnCl}_2\right)$. It is used for the differentiation of alcohols based on their reactivity. The test is particularly used to distinguish between primary, secondary, and tertiary alcohols. - Tertiary alcohols react almost immediately with Lucas reagent to form alkyl chlorides (substitution of the hydroxyl group with a chlorine atom). - Secondary alcohols react after some time, typically within 5-10 minutes. - Primary alcohols react very slowly, if at all, and may require heating.

Hence, the correct answer is option: 'A'.

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