Question

In an attempt to prepare propane by Wurtz reaction I mole of methyl bromide and I mole of ethyl bromide are treated with sodium. Assuming equal probability for all possible reaction. How many g of propane will be obtained?

Answer 1

As we are assuming the equal probabilities of a reaction :

1 mol of methyl bromide and ethyl bromide will produce CH3CH2CH3 (propane).

The reaction of both reactants in the presence of sodium is given below :

CH3Br + CH3CH2Br + 2 Na----------> CH3CH2CH3 + CH3CH2CH2CH3 +                                                                    2NaBr

1 mol of propane = molar mass  = 44.0 g

Mass of CH3CH2CH3 = 44 / 3 = 14.67 g