Q. Propionic acid with Br₂/P yields a dibromo product. Its structure would be:
A) CHBr₂–CH₂–COOH
B) CH₂Br–CH₂–COBr
C) CH₃–CBr₂–COOH
D) CH₂Br–CHBr–COOH
Explanation
[Solution from source] In the Hell–Volhard–Zelinsky reaction, Br₂/P replaces the α-hydrogens (on the carbon next to –COOH). Propionic acid has two α-H, so the dibromo product is CH₃–CBr₂–COOH. Substitution at the β-carbon or on both carbons does not occur. Answer (3).
Reviewed by Dr. Abubacker
Physics Educator & NEET/JEE Specialist
Ph.D. in Physics with 19+ years of teaching experience.