Question:

Chloroethane is prepared by the action of \(PCl_3\) on ethanol. What is the inorganic product formed in the reaction?

Show Hint

Distinguish the byproducts:
- With \(PCl_3\), the byproduct is \(H_3PO_3\).
- With \(PCl_5\), the byproducts are \(POCl_3\) and \(HCl\).
- With \(SOCl_2\), the byproducts are \(SO_2\) and \(HCl\) (both gases).
Updated On: Jun 24, 2026
  • \(POCl_3\)
  • \(HPO_3\)
  • \(H_3PO_3\)
  • \(H_2PO_2\)
  • \(H_3PO_4\)
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The reaction of alcohols with phosphorus halides is a standard method to prepare alkyl halides. Phosphorus trichloride (\(PCl_3\)) and Phosphorus pentachloride (\(PCl_5\)) yield different inorganic byproducts.

Step 2: Key Formula or Approach:

Write the balanced chemical equation for the reaction of ethanol with \(PCl_3\).

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:

The chemical reaction is:
\[ 3 C_2H_5OH + PCl_3 \to 3 C_2H_5Cl + H_3PO_3 \]
1. Ethanol (\(C_2H_5OH\)) reacts with Phosphorus trichloride (\(PCl_3\)).
2. Three moles of alcohol are required per mole of \(PCl_3\).
3. The organic product is Chloroethane (\(C_2H_5Cl\)).
4. The inorganic byproduct is Phosphorous acid, which has the formula \(H_3PO_3\).

Step 4: Final Answer:

The inorganic product is \(H_3PO_3\).
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