Question

The reaction of $SOC{l}_2$ on alcohols to form alkyl chlorides gives good yields because

• A. alkyl chlorides are immiscible with $SOC{l}_2$
• B. by-products of the reaction are gaseous and escape out
• C. alcohol and $SOC{l}_2$ are soluble in water
• D. the reaction does not occur via intermediate formation of an alkyl chlorosulphite

Answer 1

The correct option is B by-products of the reaction are gaseous and escape out

$R-OH+SOC{l}_2\to R-Cl\left(l\right)+HCl\left(g\right)+S{O}_2\left(g\right)$
Except the alkyl halide, by-products sulphur dioxide and hydrogen halides are gases and can be removed to make the reaction to go forward to completion. This yields a pure alkyl halide.