Question

The correct order of ease of cleavage of ether linkage by hydrogen halide follows

• A. $HI > HBr > HCI$
• B. $HBr > HI > HCI$
• C. $HCI > HBr > HI$
• D. $HCI > HI > HBr$

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

$HI > HBr > HCI$

Answer 2

As the size of halogen atom increases, the $H -X$ (where, $X=$ halogen atom) bond length increases which makes the bond weaker. Thus, HI is most reactive and $HCl$ is least reactive to cleave an ether linkage.