MHT CET Chemistry Question (2026) — Solution

Step-by-step solution

Wurtz reaction involves the coupling of two alkyl halide molecules in the presence of sodium and dry ether to form a symmetrical alkane. 2 R-Cl + 2 Na dry ether R-R + 2 NaCl The given product is 2,2,5,5-tetramethylhexane. Its structure is ( CH _3)_3 C - CH _2- CH _2- C ( CH _3)_3. Cleaving the molecule symmetrically at the central C - C bond gives two identical alkyl groups, which are neopentyl groups, ( CH _3)_3 C - CH _2-. Therefore, the required alkyl chloride is neopentyl chloride, ( CH _3)_3 C - CH _2- Cl . Answer: ( CH _3)_3 C - CH _2- Cl