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JEEChemistryAlcohols, Phenols & EthersClass 12

What is the difference between primary alcohol and tertiary alcohol?

A primary alcohol oxidises easily (to an aldehyde/acid) and reacts slowly in the Lucas test; a tertiary alcohol resists oxidation and reacts instantly in the Lucas test (via a stable carbocation).

A primary alcohol oxidises easily (to an aldehyde/acid) and reacts slowly in the Lucas test; a tertiary alcohol resists oxidation and reacts instantly in the Lucas test (via a stable carbocation). A reliable way to keep them apart is to focus on what each one is defined by, not just the similar-sounding words.

Key point

primary alcohol vs tertiary alcohol

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