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Multiple Choice
What is the substitution (methyl, 1°, 2°, or 3°) of the following alcohol?
A
3°
B
1°
C
Methyl
D
2°
Verified step by step guidance
1
Identify the carbon atom that is directly bonded to the hydroxyl group (OH) in the alcohol structure.
Count the number of carbon atoms directly attached to this carbon atom. This will help determine the degree of substitution.
If the carbon with the OH group is bonded to one other carbon, it is a primary (1°) alcohol. If it is bonded to two other carbons, it is a secondary (2°) alcohol. If it is bonded to three other carbons, it is a tertiary (3°) alcohol.
In the given structure, observe that the carbon bonded to the OH group is also bonded to three other carbon atoms.
Conclude that the alcohol is a tertiary (3°) alcohol based on the number of carbon atoms attached to the carbon with the OH group.