Question

Given below are two statements: Statement (I): Neopentane forms only one monosubstituted derivative. Statement (II): Melting point of neopentane is higher than n-pentane. In the light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below :

• A. Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are true
• B. Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are false
• C. Statement (I) is true but Statement (II) is false
• D. Statement (I) is false but Statement (II) is true

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are true

Answer 2

Statement (I):

Neopentane (2,2-dimethylpropane) has a quaternary carbon attached to four equivalent methyl groups. When a hydrogen is substituted (e.g., by halogenation), all available methyl hydrogens are equivalent. Hence, neopentane yields only one type of monosubstituted derivative.

Therefore, Statement (I) is correct.

Statement (II):

The molecular symmetry of neopentane permits efficient packing in the solid state, leading to a higher melting point than the less symmetrical n‑pentane.

Therefore, Statement (II) is correct.