Question

When propyne is treated with aqueous $H_2{SO}_4$ in presence of ${HgSO}_4$ the major product is:

• A. propanal.
• B. propyl hydrogensulphate.
• C. acetone.
• D. propanol.

Answer 1

The correct option is C acetone.

When an alkyne is reacted with aqueous $H_{2}S{O}_4$ in presence of $HgS{O}_4$, it is converted to a ketone. But ethyne is an exception. It gives acetaldehyde in this reaction.

Propyne in the reaction is converted to acetone (propanone).