The alkene formed as a major product in the above elimination reaction is
(A)(see structure)
(B)CH2=CH2✓ Correct
(C)(see structure)
(D)(see structure)
Answer: (B)
Solution
The elimination drawn is a Hofmann-type reaction on a quaternary ammonium substrate, where the bulky leaving group and base favour removal of a proton from the least hindered carbon. By Hofmann's rule the least substituted alkene is formed preferentially, and here that is the terminal alkene ethene, CH2=CH2, which is the major product.
JEE Main · 2006 · 30 Apr 2006 · Offline · Single correct option