Chemistry Alcohols & Phenols MDCAT 2016
PMDC Verified Question 82 of 95
\((\text{CH}_3)_3\text{C}-\text{OH}\) Which one of the following is proper classification of the above formula?
A
Primary
B
Tertiary
C
Secondary
D
Polyhydric
Tap any option to test your recall and reveal the step-by-step Propolis autopsy.

Propolis Cognitive Error Autopsy

Official Correct Choice:
Option B: Tertiary
Concept:

Alcohols are classified by counting the number of alkyl/carbon groups directly attached to the alpha carbon (the carbon bonded to the hydroxyl group).

Formula:

$$ \text{R}_3\text{C}-\text{OH} $$

Solution:

  • In \((\text{CH}_3)_3\text{C}-\text{OH}\) (tert-butyl alcohol), the central alpha carbon is bonded to exactly three methyl groups.


  • Therefore, it is a tertiary (3°) alcohol.


Why other options are incorrect:

Primary alcohols have one alkyl group attached. Secondary have two. Polyhydric alcohols possess multiple -OH groups, whereas this molecule only has one.

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