Question

When two moles of ethyl chloride react with two moles of sodium in the presence of ether what will be formed?

a) 2 moles of ethane
b) 1 moles of ethane
c) 2 moles of butane
d) 1 moles of butane

Answer 1

Answer: d
Explanation: Wurtz reaction is method of preparation of higher alkanes from lower alkyl halides. This is coupling reaction. In this reaction alkyl halides are reacted with sodium metal in presence of dry ether and higher alkanes with even number of carbon atoms only are formed, by this method.