Question

Lucas' test is used to differentiate

• A. different types of alcohols
• B. different types of amines
• C. different types of halides
• D. different type of functional group

Answer 1

The correct option is A different types of alcohols

Lucas' reagent is a solution of anhydrous zinc chloride in concentrated hydrochloric acid. A positive test is indicated by a change from clear and colourless to turbid, signalling formation of a chloroalkane. Also, the best results for this test are observed in tertiary alcohols, as they form the respective alkyl halides fastest due to higher stability of the intermediate tertiary carbocation than secondary and primary one.