Question

Lucas test is based on the difference in _______ of primary, secondary and tertiary alcohols with hydrogen chloride.

• A. solubility
• B. reactivity
• C. electronegativity
• D. none of the above

Answer 1

The correct option is B reactivity

Lucas test is based on the difference in reactivity of primary, secondary and tertiary alcohols with hydrogen chloride.

Primary alcohols do not react with Lucas reagent (conc. $HCl$ and anhydrous zinc chloride).

Secondary alcohols react with Lucas reagent and the solution turns cloudy after 3-5 minutes.

Tertiary alcohols react with Lucas reagent and the solution turns cloudy immediately.