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Question #44412

Difficulty: 8/10 | 🟢 Free

The Question

An organic compound \textbf{X}, 1,1-bis(4-nitrophenyl)-2-methylpropane-1,2-diol, is heated with concentrated H2SO4H_2SO_4. Assuming standard Pinacol-Pinacolone rearrangement conditions, identify the major product formed.

Options

  • A.

    1,2-bis(4-nitrophenyl)-2-methylpropan-1-one

  • B.

    3,3-bis(4-nitrophenyl)butan-2-one

  • C.

    1,1-bis(4-nitrophenyl)-2-methylprop-2-en-1-ol

  • D.

    2,2-dimethyl-3,3-bis(4-nitrophenyl)oxirane

Check Your Answer

Correct Answer

Step-by-Step Solution

Explanation

How the Examiner Thinks

Mechanism_Trap

Don't get tricked by the process! Learn the mechanical traps used in competitive exam questions.

Concepts Behind This Question

Pinacol-Pinacolone Rearrangement|Inductive Effect Trends

Why This Question Is Tricky

Common Mistakes

Students often blindly apply the heuristic that 'diaryl carbocations are more stable than dialkyl carbocations' (Aryl > Alkyl), assuming C1 forms the most stable carbocation.

They fail to calculate how the strong EWG (−NO2-NO_2) destabilizes the transition state and the intermediate at C1.

Consequently, they predict the wrong migration (methyl shift) leading to the distractor.

The true pathway proceeds via the kinetically and thermodynamically favored tertiary dialkyl carbocation at C2, forcing the migration of the 4-nitrophenyl group despite its poor migratory aptitude.

Quick Facts About This Question

Question Information

SubjectChemistry
ChapterAlcohols, Phenols, and Ethers - Class 12
ConceptPinacol-Pinacolone Rearrangement
Difficulty8
Cognitive Load7
Target Solve Time160 sec
AccessFree