Question:

Which from following chemical activities does NOT exhibit good atom economy according to the principles of green chemistry?

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Rule: More by-products $\rightarrow$ Lower atom economy
Updated On: May 8, 2026
  • Formation of Grignard reagent.
  • Action of HX on alkene to form alkylhalide.
  • Action of thionyl chloride on ethanol to form ethyl chloride.
  • Formation of cyclohexanol from phenol by catalytic hydrogenation.
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation


Concept: Atom economy measures how efficiently reactants are converted into desired products.
High atom economy: Most atoms end up in desired product
Low atom economy: Significant by-products formed

Step 1:
Analyze reactions.
• (A) Grignard formation: Minimal waste
• (B) HX addition to alkene: All atoms incorporated
• (C) $\text{C}_2\text{H}_5\text{OH} + \text{SOCl}_2 \rightarrow \text{C}_2\text{H}_5\text{Cl} + \text{SO}_2 + \text{HCl}$ Large amount of gaseous by-products $\rightarrow$ poor atom economy
• (D) Hydrogenation: Nearly all atoms utilized

Step 2:
Conclusion.
Thus, reaction with thionyl chloride does not exhibit good atom economy. Final Answer: Option (C)
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