Question

Which among the following is NOT obtained when bromobenzene is treated with bromoethane and sodium in presence of dry ether?

• A. n-butane
• B. Diphenyl
• C. Toluene
• D. Ethylbenzene

Hint:

Wurtz–Fittig reaction yields a mixture of alkyl–alkyl, aryl–aryl, and aryl–alkyl hydrocarbons.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Identify the reaction.
The given reaction is an example of the Wurtz–Fittig reaction, where an aryl halide reacts with an alkyl halide in the presence of sodium and dry ether.
Step 2: Possible products formed.
In this reaction, three types of products can be formed:
Alkyl–alkyl coupling gives n-butane, aryl–aryl coupling gives diphenyl, and aryl–alkyl coupling gives ethylbenzene.
Step 3: Analyze the options.
Toluene requires a methyl group attached to benzene, which cannot be formed from bromoethane under these conditions.
Step 4: Conclusion.
Therefore, toluene is not obtained in this reaction.