Question

Which among the following is a first oxidation product of butan-2-ol?

• A. Butanal
• B. Butanoic acid
• C. Propanoic acid and \( \mathrm{CO_2} \)
• D. Butan-2-one

Hint:

Primary alcohols form aldehydes, secondary alcohols form ketones, and tertiary alcohols resist oxidation.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Identifying the nature of butan-2-ol.
Butan-2-ol is a secondary alcohol because the hydroxyl group is attached to a carbon atom bonded to two other carbon atoms.

Step 2: Oxidation behavior of secondary alcohols.
On oxidation, secondary alcohols are converted into ketones. They do not form aldehydes or acids in the first step of oxidation.

Step 3: Applying the concept.
When butan-2-ol is oxidized, it loses hydrogen atoms and forms the corresponding ketone, which is butan-2-one.

Step 4: Conclusion.
Therefore, the first oxidation product of butan-2-ol is butan-2-one.