Question

Compare the acid strength of the following compounds 

1. Nitro methane 

2. Nitro ethane 

3. 2 – nitro propane

Answer 1

1. The α – H atom of 1° and 2° nitroalkanes show acidic character because of the electron withdrawing effect of NO₂ group. 

2. Nitroalkanes dissolve in NaOH solution to form a salt. 

3. When the number of alkyl group attached to a carbon increases, acidity decreases. due to +1 effect of alkyl groups.