Question

Why is sulphuric acid not used during the reaction of alcohols with KI?

Answer 1

In the presence of sulphuric acid (H₂SO₄), KI produces HI

Since is an oxidizing agent, it oxidizes HI (produced in the reaction to I₂₎.

As a result, the reaction between alcohol and HI to produce alkyl iodide cannot occur. Therefore, sulphuric acid is not used during the reaction of alcohols with KI. Instead, a non-oxidizing acid such as H₃PO₄ is used.