Propionic acid with $\mathrm{Br}_2-\mathrm{P}$ yields a dibromo product. Its structure would be

Propionic acid with $\mathrm{Br}_2-\mathrm{P}$ yields a dibromo product. Its structure would be
  1. $\mathrm{CH}_2 \mathrm{Br}-\mathrm{CHBr}-\mathrm{COOH}$

  3. $\mathrm{CH}_2 \mathrm{Br}-\mathrm{CH}_2-\mathrm{COBr}$

Solution

Key Idea $\mathrm{Br}_2$ in presence of $\mathrm{P}$ attacks on $\alpha$-carbon atom of acid and $\alpha$ hydrogen is substituted by bromine. This reaction is called Hell-Volhard Zelinsky (HVZ) reduction.

Asked in: NEET 2009 (Screening)

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