Question

Which reagent is used in the zeisel's method of detection and estimation of alkoxy?

Answer 1

Any alkyl iodide present will give a reaction with the mercury compound to mercury(II) iodide which has a red or yellow color. The reaction can also be used to determine the number of methoxy (-OCH3) groups, by distilling the iodomethane into a solution of silver nitrate, which precipitates silver iodide.

Answer 2

Explanation:

Any alkyl iodide present will give a reaction with the silver compound to silver iodide which has a red or yellow color. By filtering and weighing this precipitate it is possible to quantitatively calculate the number of iodine atoms and hence alkoxy groups.