Question

In the given compound which of the following hydrogens is most acidic?
$\underset{(a)}{CH_3} -\underset{(b)}{CH_2} -\overset{\underset{||}{O}}{C} -\underset{(c)}{CH_3}$

• A. Only [a]
• B. Only [b]
• C. Only [c]
• D. Both [b] and [c]

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

$\underset{a}{CH_3} -\underset{b}{CH_2} -\overset{\underset{||}{O}}{C} -\underset{c}{CH_3}$ This compound undergoes embolization by the following mechanism
$\ce{->[{H_2O}][{-H^+}]}CH_3 -CH = \overset{\underset{|}{OH}}{C}-CH_3$ Thus, hydrogen [b] is most acidic as it is attached with the active methylene group.