Question

how do we convert 1-chlorobutane to n-octane

Answer 1

This can be done through Wurtz reaction.

The conversion of two alkyl ahalides in the presence of Na metal and dry ether to a straight chained alkane is called Wurtz reaction. Two parts of 1-Chlorobutane reacts with sodium  metal and dry ether  to give n-octane  and NaCl(by-product).

2CH₃CH₂CH₂CH₂Cl+2Na+(dry ether)->CH₃CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₃ + 2NaCl

Hence, Chlorobutane is converted to Octane.