Question:medium

In a set of reactions propionic acid yielded a compound $D$. $CH_3CH_2COOH\xrightarrow{SOCL_2} B\xrightarrow{NH_3}C\xrightarrow [Br_2]{KOH} D$ The structure of $D$ would be

Updated On: May 15, 2026
  • $CH_3CH_2CH_2NH_2$
  • $CH_3CH_2CONH_2$
  • $CH_3CH_2NHNH_3$
  • $CH_3CH_2NH_2$
Show Solution

The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

To solve this question, we need to understand the sequence of reactions starting from propionic acid to compound D. Let's analyze each step:

  1. Conversion of Propionic Acid to Compound B:
    Propionic acid (CH_3CH_2COOH) is treated with SOCl_2 (thionyl chloride). This reaction converts the carboxylic acid into an acyl chloride. Thus, B is propionyl chloride (CH_3CH_2COCl).
  2. Conversion of Compound B to Compound C:
    When acyl chloride is treated with ammonia (NH_3), it forms an amide. Thus, C is propionamide (CH_3CH_2CONH_2).
  3. Conversion of Compound C to Compound D:
    The reaction of an amide with bromine and aqueous potassium hydroxide, known as the Hofmann Bromamide Degradation Reaction, results in the formation of a primary amine with one less carbon atom than the original amide. Therefore, D is ethylamine (CH_3CH_2NH_2).

Thus, the structure of compound D is CH_3CH_2NH_2.

The correct answer is CH_3CH_2NH_2.

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