Question:

Which of the following alcohols on addition of Lucas reagent reacts fast and turns the reagent turbid instantly.

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Tertiary alcohols give the most stable carbocation, so the turbidity appears at once.
Updated On: Oct 1, 2026
  • n - Butyl alcohol
  • sec - Butyl alcohol
  • iso - Butyl alcohol
  • tert - Butyl alcohol
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The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Lucas reagent is anhydrous \(\text{ZnCl}_2\) in concentrated HCl. The alcohol is converted to an alkyl chloride, which is insoluble and makes the solution turbid.

Step 2: Reactivity:
The rate depends on the stability of the carbocation formed: tertiary > secondary > primary. Tertiary alcohols give turbidity instantly, secondary in about 5 minutes, and primary only on heating.

Step 3: Options:
n-Butyl alcohol and iso-butyl alcohol are primary. sec-Butyl alcohol is secondary. tert-Butyl alcohol is tertiary, so it reacts fastest.

Final Answer:
tert-Butyl alcohol, option (D). \[ \boxed{\text{tert-Butyl alcohol}} \]
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