Question

Which of the following statement is correct about Hoffmann’s bromamide degradation reaction?
(a) Alkyl amide do not react.
(b) Secondary amide do not form secondary amide.
(c) Ratio of NaOH and Br₂ is 4 : 2.
(d) Na₂CO₃, NaBr and H₂O also formed along with amine.

• A. b, c and d only
• B. a, b and c only
• C. b and d only
• D. a, b, c and d

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding Hoffmann’s bromamide degradation reaction.
Hoffmann’s bromamide degradation reaction involves the reaction of an amide with bromine in the presence of a strong base (usually NaOH). The reaction results in the removal of the acyl group from the amide, forming a primary amine with one less carbon atom.
Step 2: Analyzing the Statements.
- (a) Alkyl amides do not react: This statement is incorrect. Alkyl amides can react in Hoffmann’s bromamide degradation, as long as they are primary amides. - (b) Secondary amides do not form secondary amides: This statement is correct. Secondary amides do not undergo the same reaction as primary amides in the Hoffmann degradation because they lack the required functional group for the degradation. - (c) Ratio of NaOH and Br₂ is 4 : 2: This is incorrect. The typical ratio of NaOH to Br₂ used in the Hoffmann degradation reaction is 4 : 1, not 4 : 2. - (d) Na₂CO₃, NaBr and H₂O also formed along with amine: This is correct. Along with the formation of the primary amine, the reaction also produces sodium carbonate (Na₂CO₃), sodium bromide (NaBr), and water (H₂O).
Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct answer is (C), as statements (b) and (d) are accurate. Final Answer: b and d only