The reaction of bromoethane with aqueous potassium hydroxide gives

  • A. ethene
  • B. ethanoic acid
  • C. ethane
  • D. ethanol

Explanation

In aqueous solution the hydroxide ion acts as a nucleophile, replacing the bromine to give ethanol in a substitution reaction. The same reagent in hot ethanolic solution behaves as a base instead, removing a hydrogen and giving ethene by elimination, so the solvent decides the outcome. This pair of reactions is examined constantly and turns entirely on the conditions.

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