MDCAT Chemistry MCQ #638

Why is it absolutely necessary to use 'dry' ether rather than 'moist' ether when preparing a Grignard reagent from magnesium and an alkyl halide?

MDCAT Chemistry MCQ #638

  1. Question 1

    Q1. Why is it absolutely necessary to use 'dry' ether rather than 'moist' ether when preparing a Grignard reagent from magnesium and an alkyl halide?

    • A) Water acts as a catalyst for the Grignard formation.
    • B) Water increases the solubility of the magnesium metal.
    • C) Water helps in the stabilization of the Grignard complex.
    • D) Water destroys the Grignard reagent by forming an alkane.

    Answer: Water destroys the Grignard reagent by forming an alkane.

    Explanation: Ether must be dry because Grignard reagents are highly reactive toward water, which would convert them into alkanes immediately.