The alkane that can be oxidized to the corresponding alcohol by KMnO4 as per the equation [figure] is, when :
- R1 = H; R2 = H; R3 = H
- R1 = CH3; R2 = CH3; R3 = CH3
- R1 = CH3; R2 = H; R3 = H
- R1 = CH3; R2 = CH3; R3 = H
Answer
(2) R1 = CH3; R2 = CH3; R3 = CH3
Solution
Controlled oxidation of an alkane by KMnO4 to the corresponding alcohol takes place only at a tertiary C–H bond (alkanes having a tertiary H).
With R1 = R2 = R3 = CH3, the alkane is 2-methylpropane:
(CH3)3CH KMnO4 (CH3)3COH (2-methylpropan-2-ol)
Answer: (2)