Answer :
Final answer:
The correct method to synthesize an alcohol by the reaction of a Grignard reagent with methanol is by adding the Grignard reagent to methanol at room temperature, under an inert atmosphere. This approach utilizes the nucleophilic character of the Grignard reagent for a successful reaction.
Explanation:
When synthesizing alcohols using a Grignard reagent, the correct approach is crucial to obtain the desired product. Methanol, however, has a reactivity that can complicate the synthesis of complex alcohols when used with Grignard reagents. The general approach for creating an alcohol involves adding a Grignard reagent to a suitable carbonyl containing compound, and subsequently acidifying it.
For the synthesis of an alcohol by the reaction of a Grignard reagent with methanol, option b would be the correct choice - by adding the Grignard reagent to methanol at room temperature. This works because Grignard reagents are strong nucleophiles and methanol acts as an electrophile. Upon contact, the nucleophilic carbon of the Grignard reagent will attack the electrophilic carbon of the methanol, forming the alcohol after a proton transfer.
It is essential to perform this reaction under an inert atmosphere to prevent the Grignard reagent from reacting with moisture or oxygen in the air, which would destroy its reactivity. Therefore, option d, mixing in an open flask, would not be appropriate. Refluxing under acidic conditions, as in option a, would also lead to the degradation of the Grignard reagent. In conclusion, when using methanol to synthesize a different alcohol via a Grignard reaction, add the Grignard reagent to methanol at room temperature under an inert atmosphere.
