n - propyl chloride and isopropyl chloride mixture is subjected to the Wurtz reaction, which one of the following compound is not formed

Correct Answer: Option (b)

Step 1: Recall the Wurtz reaction

2R−X+2Na→R−R+2NaX

Two alkyl halides combine in the presence of sodium to form a new alkane.

If you mix different halides, you can get cross-coupled products as well as products from the same halide.

Step 2: Identify possible products

n-propyl chloride (CH₃CH₂CH₂Cl) + n-propyl chloride → hexane (CH₃CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₂CH₃) Seems possible.

isopropyl chloride ((CH₃)₂CHCl) + isopropyl chloride → 2,3-dimethylbutane Yes.

n-propyl chloride + isopropyl chloride → 2-methylpentane

2,5-dimethylhexane - Yes

Step 3: Now Check for hexane formation

Hexane would require two straight-chain n-propyl radicals. But in the mixture, the cross-coupling dominates, and statistically, the main products are branched alkanes.

Wurtz reaction with secondary halides (like isopropyl chloride) often gives branched alkanes; straight hexane is not formed in this mixture.

Hence, Hexane is not formed.