Question

A compound $A$ has a molecular formula $C_2Cl_3OH$. It reduces Fehling's solution and on oxidation, gives a monocarboxylic acid $B$. $A$ can be obtained by the action of chlorine on ethyl alcohol. $A$ is

• A. chloroform
• B. chloral
• C. methyl chloride
• D. monochloroacetic acid

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

chloral

Answer 2

Molecular formula of $A=C_{2}Cl_{3}OH$ As $(A)$ reduces Fehling's solution and on oxidation gives a monocarboxylic acid $(B)$. It means $(A)$ must be an aldehyde, i.e. $CCl_{3}CHO$ This is further confirmed by the reaction, $C_{2}H_{5}OH + Cl_{2} { ->[O] } CH_{3}CHO { ->[{3Cl_{2}}][{NaOH}] }CCl_{3}CHO$ Hence, A = Chloral $(CCl_{3}CHO)$