Question

Why $\mathrm{HCl}$is the least reactive towards alcohol?

Answer 1

$\mathrm{HCl}$:

1. At normal temperature and pressure, Hydrogen chloride $\left(\mathrm{HCl}\right)$ is a gas made up of the elements Hydrogen and chlorine.
2. Hydrochloric acid is the name for a gas solution in water.
3. It is less reactive toward the alcohol because the chlorine atom is more electronegative and is smaller in size.
4. When alcohols are treated with $\mathrm{HCl}$, they usually undergo a nucleophilic replacement reaction, resulting in the formation of an alkyl halide and water.
5. In the ethanol, $\mathrm{HCl}$ should be extremely soluble – almost as soluble as it is in water.
6. Some sources say that up to 78 parts are soluble at $0°\mathrm{C}$ per 100 parts of ethanol, decreasing to 69 parts at $20°\mathrm{C}$.

• The silver nitrate solution is the best way to test for hydrochloric acid.
• In a test tube, apply the silver nitrate solution to the test solution and watch the reaction.
• Hydrochloric acid is present when a white precipitate forms.