Question

The alkane that can be oxidized to the corresponding alcohol by KMnO₄ as per the equation

is, when:

• A. R₁ = H; R₂ = H; R₃ = H
• B. R₁ = CH₃; R₂ = CH₃; R₃ = CH₃
• C. R₁ = CH₃; R₂ = H; R₃ = H
• D. R₁ = CH₃; R₂ = CH₃; R₃ = H

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Potassium permanganate (KMnO$_4$), a potent oxidizing agent, selectively oxidizes tertiary carbons to alcohols. For the depicted reaction to proceed, the carbon atom undergoing substitution by a hydroxyl group (-OH) must be tertiary, meaning it is bonded to three other carbon atoms. Examining the provided options:
(1) A carbon bonded only to hydrogen atoms and one other carbon is primary.
(2) A carbon bonded to three methyl groups (CH$_3$) is tertiary.
(3) A carbon bonded to one methyl group and the remainder hydrogen atoms is primary.
(4) A carbon bonded to two methyl groups and one hydrogen atom is secondary.
Only option (2) describes a tertiary carbon, which is susceptible to oxidation by KMnO$_4$ into the corresponding alcohol.