The product 'P' gives positive ceric ammonium nitrate test. This is because of the presence of which of these -OH group(s)?
(A)(d) only
(B)(b) and (d)
(C)(b) only✓ Correct
(D)(c) and (d)
Answer: (C)
Solution
The ceric ammonium nitrate test turns positive when a free alcoholic hydroxyl group is present. In forming the product P the oxidising conditions consume the oxidisable alcohol groups, leaving behind only the hindered hydroxyl that resists oxidation. It is that surviving group, the one at position (b), which gives the positive test, so the colour is due to the (b) hydroxyl only.
JEE Main · 2020 · 03 Sep 2020 · Shift 2 · Single correct option