Which of the following is true of the hydration-dehydration equilibrium that exists between alcohols and alkenes under aqueous acidic conditions?
A) It lies so far in one direction that it can only be used for the preparation of alcohols.
B) It lies so far in one direction that it can only be used for the preparation of alkenes.
C) Reaction conditions can be adjusted so that the equilibrium can be used to prepare either alcohols or alkenes in high yields.
D) It is not useful for the preparation of either alcohols or alkenes.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The hydration-dehydration equilibrium between alcohols and alkenes under aqueous acidic conditions can be used to prepare either alcohols or alkenes depending on the reaction conditions. By adjusting the amount of acid and water present in the reaction, the equilibrium can be shifted towards the formation of either the alcohol or the alkene, allowing for high yields of either product. Therefore, option C is the correct answer.

Which of the Following Is True of the Hydration-Dehydration Equilibrium