NEETChemistryHydrocarbons
What is the significance of the term "even number of carbon atoms" in the context of the Wurtz reaction?
Options
- AIt indicates that the reaction only works for compounds with an even number of carbon atoms.
- BIt specifies that the product will always have two carbon atoms.
- CIt implies that the carbon-carbon bond formed is always a single bond.
- DIt highlights that the product will have a symmetric structure.
Correct answer
D. It highlights that the product will have a symmetric structure.
Step-by-step solution
In the Wurtz reaction, the term "even number of carbon atoms" indicates that the product will have a symmetric structure because two alkyl radicals combine to form a higher alkane.