Question

Which of the following is NOT obtained when a mixture of bromoethane and 1-bromopropane is treated with sodium metal in dry ether?

• A. Propane
• B. Butane
• C. Pentane
• D. Hexane

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

Propane

Answer 2

In the Wurtz reaction, two alkyl halides couple as follows:

• Bromoethane + Bromoethane: → Butane
• 1-Bromopropane + 1-Bromopropane: → Hexane
• Bromoethane + 1-Bromopropane (cross-coupling): → Pentane

No combination produces propane.