NEETChemistryAlcohols Phenols and Ethers
What is the preferred reagent for replacing the hydroxyl group in alcohols with a halogen to obtain pure alkyl halides?
Options
- AConcentrated HCl
- BPhosphorus tribromide
- CThionyl chloride
- DSodium iodide
Correct answer
C. Thionyl chloride
Step-by-step solution
Thionyl chloride is preferred because it yields pure alkyl halides along with gaseous products (SO 2 and HCl) that can be easily removed.