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JEE Advanced levelSingle correct optionDifficulty 3 of 3o2148

Benzene is treated with 1-chloro-2,2-dimethylpropane () and anhydrous . The major product is

  1. A(2,2-dimethylpropyl)benzene (neopentylbenzene)
  2. B(3-methylbutan-2-yl)benzene
  3. C(2-methylbutyl)benzene
  4. D(2-methylbutan-2-yl)benzene (tert-pentylbenzene)

Answer: D

Ionisation would give a primary neopentyl cation, which is very unstable. A 1,2-methyl shift (concerted with ionisation) converts it to the tertiary cation . This cation alkylates benzene, giving tert-pentylbenzene.
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