Question

An organic compound of molecular formula $C_4{H}_{10}O$ does not react with sodium. With excess of HI, it gives only one type of alkyl iodide. The compound is :

• A. unsymmetrical ether
• B. symmetrical ether
• C. alcohol
• D. none of these

Answer 1

The correct option is B symmetrical ether

When ether (R-O-R') is treated with HI, it us cleaved into R-OH and R'-I or R-I and R'-OH. If the two alkyl groups (R and R') are same, i.e. if the ether is symmetrical ether, then we will get only one type of alkyl iodide.