Hydrolysis of ROH: Using HCl & ZnCl2 w/ Water

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The discussion centers on the use of dry HCl and anhydrous ZnCl2 as catalysts for the substitution of ROH to RX in primary and secondary alkanols, while highlighting the suitability of concentrated HCl and ZnCl2 for tertiary alkanols, even in the presence of small amounts of water. The stability of the carbocation intermediate formed during the reaction is emphasized, with tertiary ROH yielding a more stable intermediate, making the reaction less sensitive to water. Additionally, there is a mention of the Lucas test experiment, where concentrated acid is typically added to all solutions, suggesting a need to verify specific procedural guidelines.
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In the substitution of ROH to RX, dry HCl and anhydrous ZnCl2 catalysts are used for primary and secondary alkanol. Why it is fine to use concentrated HCl and ZnCl2 for tertiary alkanol, that is to say, with small amounts of water present?
 
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Think about the mechanism of the reaction, and the trends in the stability of the intermediate
 
so because the carbocation intermediate of tertiary ROH is more stable, so the presence of a little amount of water does not affect the reaction much. Am I right? :rolleyes:
 
You're doing the lucas test experiment right? From what I remember, you're supposed to add concentration acid to all solutions, you might want to ascertain whether your manual indicates otherwise.
 
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