Which of the following alkanes CANNOT be synthesized in good yield using the Wurtz reaction? — Hydrocarbons Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

The Wurtz reaction involves the coupling of two alkyl halides in the presence of sodium metal and dry ether. It is highly effective for preparing symmetrical alkanes (even number of carbons) because using two different alkyl halides leads to a mixture of three alkanes that are difficult to separate due to similar boiling points. n-Heptane has 7 carbon atoms (odd/unsymmetrical) and thus cannot be prepared in good yield.