Question

Primary, secondary and tertiary alcohols are distinguished by:

• A. Oxidation method
• B. Lucas test
• C. Victor meyer's method
• D. All of the above

Answer 1

The correct option is D All of the above

1. By oxidation: Primary alcohol will give carboxylic acid which on reaction with ethanol give a fruity smell. Secondary alcohol will give ketone which can be detected by iodoform test. Tertiary alcohol won't oxidize (if the temperature is not high).
   
2. Lucas test can also distinguish them depending on the turbidity of the solution. Primary alcohol - no turbidity. Secondary alcohol - turbidity after 5 minutes. Tertiary alcohol - instant turbidity.
3. Victor Mayer's test can also distinguish them.

• Primary alcohol - final colour red.
  
• Secondary alcohol - final colour blue.
  
• Tertiary alcohol - no colour change.