Sodium metal is reacted with ethyl bromide in a dry ethereal solution. Which symmetrical alkane is produced according to the Wurtz synthesis?
Q1. Sodium metal is reacted with ethyl bromide in a dry ethereal solution. Which symmetrical alkane is produced according to the Wurtz synthesis?
Answer: n-Butane
Explanation: Wurtz reaction effectively couples two alkyl groups to form symmetrical alkanes. Propane is tempting but requires mixed halides, leading to low yields.