Which of the following reagents could be used to distinguish between propan-1-ol and propan-2-ol

A. H+ / K₂Cr₂O₇
B. I₂ / OH-
C. CH₃COOH
D. NaCl

Correct Answer:

Option A = H+ / K₂Cr₂O₇

Explanation

When a primary alcohol like ethanol is warmed with excess of an oxidizing reagent, such as acidified Potassium permanganate (KMnO₄) or acidified Potassium dichromate (VI) (K₂Cr₂O₇), it is oxidized first to ethanal then to ethanoic acid, WHILE

Secondary alcohols like butan-2-ol will be oxidized to alkanones

propan-1-ol – primary alcohol,

propan-2-ol- secondary alcohol

– The Lucas test in alcohols is a test to differentiate between primary, secondary, and tertiary alcohols. It is based on the difference in reactivity of the three classes of alcohols with hydrogen halides