If a mixture of sodium acetate () and sodium propanoate () undergoes Kolbe's electrolytic method, wh — Hydrocarbons Chemistry Question
Question
If a mixture of sodium acetate ($CH_3COONa$) and sodium propanoate ($C_2H_5COONa$) undergoes Kolbe's electrolytic method, which of the following alkanes will be found in the anodic product mixture?
Answer: A,B,C
💡 Solution & Explanation
During Kolbe's electrolysis of this mixture, methyl radicals ($CH_3^\bullet$) and ethyl radicals ($C_2H_5^\bullet$) are generated at the anode. They can randomly couple to form $CH_3-CH_3$ (Ethane), $CH_3-CH_2CH_3$ (Propane), and $CH_3CH_2-CH_2CH_3$ (Butane). Methane cannot be formed through direct radical coupling in this process.
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