Question

A compound (X) has a molecular formula $C_{2}C{l}_{3}OH$. It reduces Fehling's solution and on oxidation gives a monocarboxylic acid (Y). It can be obtained by the action of chlorine on ethanol. (X) is:

• A. Methyl chloride
• B. Monochloroacetic acid
• C. Chloral
• D. Chloroform

Answer 1

The correct option is C Chloral

Compound (X) reduces Fehling's solution, it means it may be an aldehyde. Upon oxidtion it gives a monocarboxylic group which confirms the presence of an aldehyde group only.
$C{l}_{3}CCHO\stackrel{\left[O\right]}{\to }C{l}_{3}C-COOH$

$X$ is prepared by :
$\underset{\text{anhydrous}}{C{H}_{3}C{H}_{2}OH}+C{l}_2\left(g\right)\to C{H}_{3}CHO$

$C{H}_{3}CHO+C{l}_2\to \underset{\text{Chloral}}{C{l}_{3}CCHO}$