Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
In the reaction where an alcohol accepts a proton, what molecule is formed as a product?
A
Aldehyde
B
Water
C
Carbocation
D
Ether
Verified step by step guidance
1
Identify the type of reaction: The problem describes a protonation reaction where an alcohol accepts a proton.
Understand the mechanism: When an alcohol (R-OH) accepts a proton (H⁺), it forms an oxonium ion (R-OH₂⁺).
Consider the stability of the oxonium ion: The oxonium ion is a transient intermediate and can lead to the formation of a more stable product.
Determine the possible products: In the context of protonation, the oxonium ion can lose a water molecule (H₂O) to form a carbocation (R⁺).
Conclude the product formation: The loss of water from the oxonium ion results in the formation of a carbocation, which is a key intermediate in many organic reactions.