Which hydrocarbon can not be obtained by Wurtz reaction?
- A. Methane
- B. Ethane
- C. Propane
- D. Butane
Answer: A. Methane
- The Wurtz reaction involves the coupling of two alkyl halides in the presence of sodium metal.
- To form a hydrocarbon, both alkyl halides must contribute at least one carbon atom.
- Methane, however, only has one carbon atom. Therefore, even if you react two different alkyl halides, it’s impossible to connect them to form methane using the Wurtz reaction.
- Ethane, propane, and butane can all be obtained by the Wurtz reaction, using appropriate combinations of alkyl halides.