Alkanols can be manufactured from alkenes by the initial reaction of alkenes with?

A. bromine in tetrachloromethane
B. concentrated tetraoxosulphate(VI) acid
C. aqueous potassium tetraoxomanganate(VII).
D. sodium hydroxide solution.

Correct Answer:

Option B – concentrated tetraoxosulphate(VI) acid

Explanation

An alkene reacts with conc. H2SO4 to yield an alkyl hydrogen tetraoxosulphate (VI). The compound formed undergoes hydrolysis when boiled with water to yield an alcohol.