MDCAT Chemistry MCQ #270

When unsymmetrical ketones like 2-Butanone are oxidized with powerful oxidizing agents, which rule determines the distribution of carbon atoms in the resulting acids?

MDCAT Chemistry MCQ #270

  1. Question 1

    Q1. When unsymmetrical ketones like 2-Butanone are oxidized with powerful oxidizing agents, which rule determines the distribution of carbon atoms in the resulting acids?

    • A) Carbonyl stays with larger alkyl
    • B) Carbonyl stays with smaller alkyl
    • C) Symmetric cleavage always occurs
    • D) No cleavage of C-C bonds

    Answer: Carbonyl stays with smaller alkyl

    Explanation: Popoff's rule states that during ketone oxidation, the carbonyl group remains with the smaller alkyl group. Option A incorrectly suggests it stays with the larger group.