Question

Which one of the following nitro compounds does not react with nitrous acid ?

• A.
• B.
• C.
• D.

Answer 1

The correct option is C

The nitro compound having alpha hydrogen reacts with nitrous acid. The reaction is used for distinguished primary, secondary and tertiary nitro compounds.
Primary nitroalkane has alpha hydrogen, so they react with nitrous acid and form nitroso-nitroalkane.
Secondary nitroalkane also has alpha hydrogen, so they react with nitrous acid and form pseudonitroles.
Tertiary nitroalkanes do not have alpha hydrogen, so they do not react with nitrous acid.


Hence, option (a) is the correct answer.