Cellulose upon acetylation with excess acetic anhydride/H2SO4 (catalytic) gives cellulose triacetate whose structure is
(A)(see structure)✓ Correct
(B)(see structure)
(C)(see structure)
(D)(see structure)
Answer: (A)
Solution
Cellulose has β(1→4) glycosidic linkages between glucose units. Upon acetylation with excess acetic anhydride in the presence of catalytic H2SO4, all three hydroxyl groups on each glucose unit are converted to acetate esters, forming cellulose triacetate. The correct structure maintains the β(1→4) linkage with three acetyl groups per glucose unit.
JEE Advanced · 2008 · 13 Apr 2008 · Paper 2 · Single correct option