Chemistry

UPSC Chemistry 2024 — Paper II

All 8 questions from UPSC Civil Services Mains Chemistry 2024 Paper II (400 marks total). Every stem reproduced in full, with directive-word analysis, marks, word limits, and answer-approach pointers.

8Questions
400Total marks
2024Year
Paper IIPaper

Topics covered

Organic Chemistry - Reaction Mechanisms and Aromaticity (1)Organic Chemistry - Reaction Mechanisms and Synthetic Methods (1)Organic chemistry reaction mechanisms (1)Reaction mechanisms and energy profiles (1)Biomolecules, photochemistry, spectroscopy and organic reactions (1)Polymer chemistry, photochemistry and reaction mechanisms (1)Spectroscopy and structure elucidation (1)Spectroscopy, photochemistry and physical chemistry (1)

A

Q1
50M Compulsory explain Organic Chemistry - Reaction Mechanisms and Aromaticity

(a) (i) Classify the following as aromatic, nonaromatic or antiaromatic : (1) Azulene (2) Pyridine (3) Sydnone (4) Cyclooctatetraene (5) Cyclopentadienyl cation (5 marks) (ii) Though the following compound contains a keto group, it does not undergo nucleophilic addition reactions. Explain : (5 marks) (b) What is the intermediate formed during the following reaction? Explain any one experimental proof for the formation of the intermediate. (10 marks) (c) How is the following conversion brought about? (S)-2-Butanol → (S)-2-Butyl chloride. Explain its mechanism. (10 marks) (d) Write the name of the reaction and reagent required for the following conversions : (i) [diagram] (ii) [diagram] (iii) [diagram] (iv) CH₃—CH₂—⁺NMe₃ → H₂C=CH₂ + NMe₃ (v) [diagram] (10 marks) (e) Consider the following electrocyclic reactions : (i) Predict the mode of ring closure/opening at each of the three steps. (ii) Predict the structure of M. (iii) Are the indicated hydrogens cis or trans ? (10 marks)

हिंदी में पढ़ें

(क) (i) निमलिखित का ऐरोमैटिक, नॉन-ऐरोमैटिक या ऐन्टी-ऐरोमैटिक में वर्गीकरण कीजिए : (1) ऐज़ुलीन (2) पिरीडीन (3) सिडनोन (4) साइक्लोऑक्टेट्राइन (5) साइक्लोपेंटाडाइइनिल धनायन (5 अंक) (ii) यद्यपि निमलिखित यौगिक में एक कीटो वर्ग है, यह नाभिकरागी योगज अभिक्रिया नहीं करता है। व्याख्या कीजिए : (5 अंक) (ख) निमलिखित अभिक्रिया के समय बनने वाला मध्यवर्ती क्या है? मध्यवर्ती के बनने के लिए किसी एक प्रायोगिक प्रमाण की व्याख्या कीजिए। (10 अंक) (ग) निम्नलिखित रूपांतरण कैसे किया जाता है? (S)-2-ब्यूटेनॉल → (S)-2-ब्यूटाइल क्लोराइड। इसकी क्रियाविधि की व्याख्या कीजिए। (10 अंक) (घ) निम्नलिखित रूपांतरणों में अभिक्रिया का नाम तथा उनमें इस्तेमाल होने वाले अभिकर्मकों के नाम लिखिए : (i) [आरेख] (ii) [आरेख] (iii) [आरेख] (iv) CH₃—CH₂—⁺NMe₃ → H₂C=CH₂ + NMe₃ (v) [आरेख] (10 अंक) (ङ) निम्नलिखित इलेक्ट्रोसाइक्लिक अभिक्रियाओं पर विचार कीजिए : (i) तीनों चरणों में प्रत्येक पर वलय संवरण/विवर्तन विधि का पूर्वानुमान लगाइए। (ii) M की संरचना का पूर्वानुमान लगाइए। (iii) दर्शाए गए हाइड्रोजन समपक्ष (सिस) हैं या प्रतिपक्ष (ट्रांस)? (10 अंक)

Answer approach & key points

Begin with a brief introductory statement on aromaticity criteria (Hückel's rule) and reaction mechanisms. For part (a), allocate ~20% time covering all five classifications with brief reasoning; for (a)(ii), explain steric/electronic factors preventing nucleophilic addition. Part (b) requires identifying the carbocation or radical intermediate with specific experimental proof like trapping or isotopic labeling. Part (c) demands detailed SN2 mechanism with stereochemical inversion discussion. Part (d) needs named reactions with reagents for each conversion. Part (e) requires Woodward-Hoffmann rules application for electrocyclic reactions with stereochemical predictions. Conclude with stereochemical summaries where relevant.

  • (a)(i) Correct classification: Azulene (aromatic, 10πe⁻), Pyridine (aromatic, 6πe⁻), Sydnone (aromatic, 6πe⁻), Cyclooctatetraene (nonaromatic, tub conformation), Cyclopentadienyl cation (antiaromatic, 4πe⁻)
  • (a)(ii) Explanation of why certain keto compounds (e.g., hindered ketones, enolizable β-diketones, or aromatic ketones like benzophenone derivatives) resist nucleophilic addition due to steric hindrance, conjugation, or enol stabilization
  • (b) Identification of carbocation, carbanion, radical, or benzyne intermediate with specific experimental proof such as rearrangement products, trapping experiments, or kinetic isotope effect studies
  • (c) Conversion via SOCl₂/pyridine or PCl₅ with SN2 mechanism showing inversion of configuration at chiral center, retention of (S) configuration due to double inversion or specific reagent conditions
  • (d) Named reactions: (i)-(iii) functional group interconversions like Clemmensen/Wolff-Kishner, (iv) Hofmann elimination, with correct reagents specified for each
  • (e)(i)-(iii) Application of Woodward-Hoffmann rules: conrotatory/disrotatory modes based on thermal/photochemical conditions, prediction of M's structure, and correct cis/trans assignment of hydrogens based on orbital symmetry
  • Consistent use of curved arrow notation, stereochemical wedges/dashes, and clear structural representations throughout all mechanistic explanations
Q2
50M explain Organic Chemistry - Reaction Mechanisms and Synthetic Methods

(a) (i) Consider the following reactions : EtO⁻ with substrate (Rate = k_H) and EtO⁻ with deuterated substrate (Rate = k_D). It was observed that k_H/k_D = 7.1. Based on this data, predict the mechanism and justify your answer. (10 marks) (ii) Consider the following reaction : CH₂=CH—CH=CH₂ →[HBr] CH₃—CH(Br)—CH=CH₂ + CH₃—CH=CH—CH₂Br. At –80 °C, 1,2-addition product predominates while at –45 °C, 1,4-addition product prefers. Justify. (5 marks) (b) (i) Identify the major product X in the following reaction : [Diagram: Benzaldehyde + Diethyl malonate →[Pyridine] X]. Explain its mechanism. Name the reaction. (10 marks) (ii) Predict the structure of X in the following reaction : [Diagram: Tertiary alcohol →[CS₂, NaOH, CH₃I] X → Alkene]. Name the above reaction. Justify that it is a syn-elimination. (5 marks) (c) (i) Write the product of the following reactions : (A) [diagram] (B) [diagram] (C) [diagram] (15 marks) (ii) How is the following compound prepared using a Reformatsky reaction? [diagram] (5 marks)

हिंदी में पढ़ें

(क) (i) निम्नलिखित अभिक्रियाओं पर विचार कीजिए : EtO⁻ के साथ अभिकर्मक (दर = k_H) और EtO⁻ के साथ ड्यूटेरेटेड अभिकर्मक (दर = k_D)। k_H/k_D = 7.1 प्रेक्षित किया गया। इस आँकड़े के आधार पर क्रियाविधि की परिकल्पना कीजिए तथा अपने उत्तर का औचित्य सिद्ध कीजिए। (10 अंक) (ii) निम्नलिखित अभिक्रिया पर विचार कीजिए : CH₂=CH—CH=CH₂ →[HBr] CH₃—CH(Br)—CH=CH₂ + CH₃—CH=CH—CH₂Br। –80 °C पर 1,2-योगज उत्पाद प्रबलता से बनता है, जबकि –45 °C पर 1,4-योगज उत्पाद प्राथमिकता से बनता है। औचित्य सिद्ध कीजिए। (5 अंक) (ख) (i) निम्नलिखित अभिक्रिया में मुख्य उत्पाद X की पहचान कीजिए : [आरेख: बेंज़ैल्डिहाइड + डाइएथिल मैलोनेट →[पिरीडीन] X]। इसकी क्रियाविधि की व्याख्या कीजिए। अभिक्रिया का नाम लिखिए। (10 अंक) (ii) निम्नलिखित अभिक्रिया में X की संरचना का अनुमान लगाइए : [आरेख: तृतीयक एल्कोहॉल →[CS₂, NaOH, CH₃I] X → एल्कीन]। उपर्युक्त अभिक्रिया का नाम लिखिए। औचित्य सिद्ध कीजिए कि यह सम-निराकरण है। (5 अंक) (ग) (i) निम्नलिखित अभिक्रियाओं के उत्पाद लिखिए : (A) [आरेख] (B) [आरेख] (C) [आरेख] (15 अंक) (ii) रिफॉर्मेट्स्की अभिक्रिया द्वारा निम्नलिखित यौगिक कैसे निर्मित किया जाता है? [आरेख] (5 अंक)

Answer approach & key points

Explain the mechanistic rationale for each transformation across all sub-parts, allocating approximately 30% time to (a)(i) kinetic isotope effect analysis, 15% to (a)(ii) thermodynamic vs kinetic control, 25% to (b)(i) Knoevenagel condensation mechanism, 15% to (b)(ii) Chugaev elimination stereochemistry, and 15% to (c) Reformatsky application. Structure the answer with clear mechanistic arrows, energy diagrams where relevant, and explicit justification for regio- and stereoselectivity.

  • (a)(i) Primary kinetic isotope effect (k_H/k_D = 7.1 >> 1) indicates C-H bond cleavage in rate-determining step; identifies E2 elimination mechanism with transition state showing substantial C-H/C-D bond breaking character
  • (a)(ii) 1,2-addition is kinetic product (irreversible, lower activation energy at -80°C); 1,4-addition is thermodynamic product (more substituted, stable allylic bromide at -45°C); invokes Hammond postulate and reversible conditions
  • (b)(i) Knoevenagel condensation: benzaldehyde + diethyl malonate → diethyl benzylidenemalonate (X); mechanism involves enamine-type catalysis by pyridine, aldol-type condensation followed by dehydration
  • (b)(ii) Chugaev elimination: tertiary alcohol → xanthate → alkene; syn-elimination justified by cyclic six-membered transition state with methyl group axial/equatorial considerations; X is xanthate ester
  • (c)(i) Three product structures from unspecified reactions (typically pericyclic/organometallic transformations common in UPSC syllabus)
  • (c)(ii) Reformatsky reaction: α-haloester + Zn + carbonyl → β-hydroxyester; application to specific target requires identifying appropriate carbonyl partner and subsequent transformations
Q3
50M explain Organic chemistry reaction mechanisms

(a) (i) Predict the reaction mechanism and the major product formed when methyl cyanide is heated with dilute hydrochloric acid. (10 marks) (ii) Addition of bromine to cis-2-butene gives racemic-2,3-dibromobutane while trans-2-butene yields meso-2,3-dibromobutane. Justify. (5 marks) (b) (i) Explain the formation of enone in the following reaction : (5 marks) (ii) Classify the following sigmatropic rearrangement and comment if it is symmetry-allowed or symmetry-forbidden : (5 marks) (iii) Write the structure of the major product formed in the following reaction : (5 marks) (c) (i) Consider the following conversion : Show that the above conversion involves the formation of nitrene intermediate. Draw the orbital pictures of singlet and triplet states of nitrene. (10 marks) (ii) Account for the following : (1) Indole undergoes electrophilic substitution to give 3-substituted product, but not 2-substituted product. (2) Chlorobenzene does not undergo nucleophilic substitution reaction readily. (10 marks)

हिंदी में पढ़ें

(a) (i) मेथिल साइनाइड को तनु हाइड्रोक्लोरिक अम्ल के साथ गर्म करने पर बनने वाले मुख्य उत्पाद तथा क्रियाविधि का अनुमान लगाइए। (10 अंक) (ii) ब्रोमीन, सिस-2-ब्यूटीन के साथ योगज करके रेसिमिक-2,3-डाइब्रोमोब्यूटेन देता है, जबकि ट्रांस-2-ब्यूटीन के साथ मीसो-2,3-डाइब्रोमोब्यूटेन देता है। औचित्य सिद्ध कीजिए। (5 अंक) (b) (i) निम्नलिखित अभिक्रिया में ईनोन के बनने की व्याख्या कीजिए : (5 अंक) (ii) निम्नलिखित सिग्मानुवर्ती पुनर्विन्यास को वर्गीकृत कीजिए और यह टिप्पणी कीजिए कि यह सममिति-अनुमत है या सममिति-वर्जित : (5 अंक) (iii) निम्नलिखित अभिक्रिया में बनने वाले मुख्य उत्पाद की संरचना लिखिए : (5 अंक) (c) (i) निम्नलिखित रूपांतरण पर विचार कीजिए : दिखाइए कि उपर्युक्त रूपांतरण में मध्यवर्ती नाइट्रीन बनता है। नाइट्रीन की एकक व त्रिक अवस्थाओं के कक्षीय चित्र दर्शाइए। (10 अंक) (ii) निम्नलिखित के कारण दीजिए : (1) इंडोल, इलेक्ट्रोनार्गी प्रतिस्थापन द्वारा 3-प्रतिस्थापित उत्पाद देता है, लेकिन 2-प्रतिस्थापित उत्पाद नहीं। (2) क्लोरोबेंजीन की नाभिकरागी प्रतिस्थापन अभिक्रिया आसानी से नहीं होती है। (10 अंक)

Answer approach & key points

Begin with a brief introduction acknowledging the diversity of reaction mechanisms covered. For part (a), spend approximately 25% time on hydrolysis mechanism and 15% on bromine addition stereochemistry. For part (b), allocate 15% each across the three sub-parts covering enone formation, sigmatropic classification, and product prediction. For part (c), devote 30% to nitrene chemistry with orbital diagrams and 15% to indole/aryl halide reactivity explanations. Conclude with a synthesis statement on how mechanistic understanding enables predictive organic synthesis.

  • (a)(i) Acid hydrolysis of nitriles: nucleophilic addition-elimination mechanism via amide intermediate, final product acetic acid; conditions specify dilute HCl and heating
  • (a)(ii) Anti-addition of Br₂ to alkenes via cyclic bromonium ion; cis-alkene gives racemic mixture, trans-alkene gives meso compound due to stereospecific ring opening
  • (b)(i) Enone formation via aldol condensation or related mechanism (Robinson annulation or simple dehydration of β-hydroxy ketone)
  • (b)(ii) [3,3]-sigmatropic rearrangement (Claisen or Cope type) with Woodward-Hoffmann analysis showing symmetry-allowed thermal [4n+2] process
  • (b)(iii) Structure prediction requiring application of named reaction or pericyclic/selectivity principles
  • (c)(i) Nitrene generation from azide thermolysis or photolysis; singlet (paired electrons, sp², empty p-orbital) vs triplet (two unpaired electrons, sp, linear) orbital diagrams
  • (c)(ii)(1) Indole electrophilic substitution at C-3 due to preferred attack on pyrrole ring preserving benzene aromaticity; C-2 attack disrupts both rings' aromaticity
  • (c)(ii)(2) Chlorobenzene: sp² carbon, resonance stabilization of lone pair, partial double bond character, poor leaving group Cl⁻ without electron-withdrawing groups
Q4
50M outline Reaction mechanisms and energy profiles

(a) (i) Consider the following reaction : Name the product X and outline the mechanism indicating the rate-determining step. (10 marks) (ii) Indicate the major products of the following reactions and point out the mechanism as S_N1, S_N2, E1 or E2 : (1) (CH_3)_3CBr + C_2H_5OH Heat/60°C (2) CH_3CH = CHCl + NaNH_2 (5 marks) (b) (i) Consider the following reaction : How would you confirm that the above reaction is intramolecular by crossover experiment? (10 marks) (ii) Draw the energy profile diagram for the conversion of benzene to chlorobenzene giving structures of transition states. (5 marks) (c) (i) Write the structure of the major product(s) formed in the following reactions : (A) (B) (C) (10 marks) (ii) Write the structure of the product in the following reaction and describe the steps involved : (10 marks)

हिंदी में पढ़ें

(a) (i) निम्नलिखित अभिक्रिया पर विचार कीजिए : उत्पाद X का नाम लिखिए और दर-निर्धारक चरण दर्शाते हुए क्रियाविधि की रूपरेखा लिखिए। (10 अंक) (ii) निम्नलिखित अभिक्रियाओं में मुख्य उत्पादों को दर्शाइए व क्रियाविधि को S_N1, S_N2, E1 या E2 के रूप में इंगित कीजिए : (1) (CH_3)_3CBr + C_2H_5OH ताप/60°C (2) CH_3CH = CHCl + NaNH_2 (5 अंक) (b) (i) निम्नलिखित अभिक्रिया पर विचार कीजिए : पारगमन प्रयोग द्वारा आप कैसे पुष्टि करेंगे कि उपर्युक्त अभिक्रिया अंतर-आणविक है? (10 अंक) (ii) बेंजीन से क्लोरोबेंजीन के रूपांतरण में संक्रमण अवस्था की संरचना लिखते हुए ऊर्जा प्रोफाइल आरेख बनाइए। (5 अंक) (c) (i) निम्नलिखित अभिक्रियाओं में बनने वाले मुख्य उत्पाद/उत्पादों की संरचना लिखिए : (A) (B) (C) (10 अंक) (ii) निम्नलिखित अभिक्रिया में उत्पाद की संरचना लिखिए और इसमें सम्मिलित चरणों का वर्णन कीजिए : (10 अंक)

Answer approach & key points

The directive 'outline' demands a systematic presentation of mechanisms with clear stepwise progression. Structure your answer by addressing each sub-part sequentially: spend ~40% time on (a)(i) mechanism with rate-determining step identification, ~20% on (a)(ii) SN1/SN2/E1/E2 classification, ~25% on (b)(i) crossover experiment design, and ~15% on (b)(ii) energy profile with transition states. Use clear arrow-pushing diagrams throughout and explicitly label rate-determining steps.

  • For (a)(i): Correct identification of product X with complete mechanism showing electron flow, intermediates, and explicit labeling of rate-determining step with reasoning
  • For (a)(ii): Major product identification for t-butyl bromide-ethanol reaction (SN1/E1 competition favoring substitution at 60°C) and chloropropene-NaNH2 reaction (elimination-addition via benzyne for aryl halide)
  • For (b)(i): Design of crossover experiment using isotopically labeled substrates (e.g., deuterated or 13C-labeled) to distinguish intramolecular vs intermolecular pathways by analyzing product distribution
  • For (b)(ii): Energy profile diagram showing benzene → σ-complex (Wheland intermediate) → chlorobenzene with proper transition state structures (sp3 hybridized carbon in TS1, TS2) and relative energy levels
  • For (c)(i): Structure determination for three reactions considering stereochemistry, regioselectivity, and rearrangements where applicable
  • For (c)(ii): Multi-step mechanism with curved arrows showing electron movement, intermediate formation, and final product structure with stereochemical outcome

B

Q5
50M Compulsory predict Biomolecules, photochemistry, spectroscopy and organic reactions

(a) Write the structures of the bases present in DNA and RNA. Compare the stability of DNA and RNA. (10 marks) (b) Predict the structure of P, Q and R in the following sequence of reactions : (10 marks) (c) Write down the product(s) in the following reactions : (i) C₆H₅COCOOC₂H₅ + CH₃CHOHC₂H₅ $\xrightarrow{h\nu}$ (ii) CH₃COCOOC₂H₅ + CH₃OH $\xrightarrow{h\nu}$ (10 marks) (d) In UV spectra of the following pairs, which compound will have higher λ_max? (i) and A B (ii) and A B (iii) and A B (iv) and A B (v) and A B (10 marks) (e) In ¹H NMR spectrum of the following compounds, how many signals will be observed? I II III In each case, label and arrange the hydrogens in the order of increasing chemical shift. (10 marks)

हिंदी में पढ़ें

(a) डी० एन० ए० तथा आर० एन० ए० में उपस्थित बेसों की संरचना लिखिए। डी० एन० ए० तथा आर० एन० ए० की स्थिरता की तुलना कीजिए। (10 अंक) (b) निम्नलिखित अभिक्रिया क्रम में P, Q तथा R की संरचना का अनुमान लगाइए : (10 अंक) (c) निम्नलिखित अभिक्रियाओं में उत्पाद/उत्पादों को लिखिए : (i) C₆H₅COCOOC₂H₅ + CH₃CHOHC₂H₅ $\xrightarrow{h\nu}$ (ii) CH₃COCOOC₂H₅ + CH₃OH $\xrightarrow{h\nu}$ (10 अंक) (d) निम्नलिखित युग्मों के UV स्पेक्ट्रा में किस यौगिक का λ_max अधिक होगा? (i) और A B (ii) और A B (iii) और A B (iv) और A B (v) और A B (10 अंक) (e) निम्नलिखित यौगिकों के ¹H NMR स्पेक्ट्रम में कितने सिग्नल दिखाई देंगे? I II III प्रत्येक केस में हाइड्रोजनों को लेबल कीजिए और उन्हें रासायनिक सूति (शिफ्ट) के बढ़ते क्रम में व्यवस्थित कीजिए। (10 अंक)

Answer approach & key points

The directive 'predict' in part (b) requires logical deduction of reaction intermediates and products, while other parts demand 'write', 'compare', and analytical reasoning. Allocate approximately 20% time to each sub-part (a-e) as all carry equal 10 marks. Begin with clear structural drawings for DNA/RNA bases in (a), then systematically work through the photochemical mechanisms in (b) and (c) showing radical intermediates, apply Woodward-Fieser rules for UV comparisons in (d), and conclude with careful symmetry analysis for NMR signal counting in (e). Ensure all structures are neatly drawn with proper stereochemistry indicated where relevant.

  • Part (a): Structures of five nitrogenous bases (adenine, guanine, cytosine, thymine, uracil) with correct hydrogen bonding patterns; comparison of DNA vs RNA stability citing 2'-OH in ribose, base pairing (A-T vs A-U), and double helix structure
  • Part (b): Identification of P, Q, R as photochemical reaction intermediates/products—likely involving Norrish Type I/II cleavage or Paternò-Büchi reaction products with correct stereochemical assignments
  • Part (c)(i): Photochemical reduction product of phenylglyoxylate ester with isopropanol—pinacol-type coupling or radical addition product with proper structural representation
  • Part (c)(ii): Photochemical reaction of pyruvate ester with methanol—decarbonylation or ester exchange via radical mechanism showing the α-hydroxy ester or fragmentation products
  • Part (d): Application of Woodward-Fieser rules for λ_max prediction—identifying extended conjugation, auxochrome effects, and steric factors in each A vs B pair (likely enones, dienes, or aromatic systems)
  • Part (e): ¹H NMR signal counting using symmetry elements—chemical shift ordering based on electronegativity, anisotropic effects, and hybridization for compounds I, II, III with δ values in ppm
Q6
50M explain Polymer chemistry, photochemistry and reaction mechanisms

(a) (i) Explain the various steps involved in benzoyl peroxide-initiated polymerization of ethylene to give polyethylene. (10 marks) (ii) Predict the physical properties of atactic, syndiotactic and isotactic polystyrenes based on their structure. (5 marks) (b) Write down the mechanism for the formation of compounds B and C from compound A on photoirradiation : (15 marks) (c) Identify A, B, C and D in the following reaction sequence : A $\xrightarrow[\text{MeOH}]{\text{NaBH}_4}$ [cyclohexanol structure] $\xrightarrow{\text{H}^+}$ B $\xrightarrow{\text{C}}$ [3-bromocyclohexene structure] $\xrightarrow{\text{mCPBA}}$ D Write the mechanism of the first step of the above reaction sequence. (20 marks)

हिंदी में पढ़ें

(a) (i) बेंज़ॉयल परॉक्साइड द्वारा प्रारंभ किए गए एथिलीन के बहुलकन, जिसमें पॉलीएथिलीन बनता है, में सम्मिलित विभिन्न चरणों की व्याख्या कीजिए। (10 अंक) (ii) अव्यवस्थ (एटैक्टिक), एकांतर व्यवस्थ (सिन्डियोटैक्टिक) तथा समव्यवस्थ (आइसोटैक्टिक) पॉलिस्टाइरीनों के भौतिक गुणधर्मों का उनकी संरचना के आधार पर अनुमान लगाइए। (5 अंक) (b) यौगिक A के प्रकाशिक किरणन पर यौगिकों B तथा C के बनने की क्रियाविधि लिखिए : (15 अंक) (c) निम्नलिखित अभिक्रिया क्रम में A, B, C तथा D की पहचान कीजिए : उपर्युक्त अभिक्रिया क्रम में प्रथम चरण की क्रियाविधि लिखिए। (20 अंक)

Answer approach & key points

Begin with a brief introduction defining radical polymerization and stereoregularity. For part (a)(i), explain the three-step mechanism (initiation, propagation, termination) with clear radical structures; for (a)(ii), compare tacticity effects on crystallinity and Tg using diagrams. Part (b) requires detailed photochemical mechanisms with curved arrows showing excited state chemistry. Part (c) demands identification of all four compounds and a complete mechanism for NaBH4 reduction. Allocate approximately 25% time to (a)(i), 10% to (a)(ii), 30% to (b), and 35% to (c) based on marks distribution. Conclude with industrial relevance of polyethylene and polystyrene in Indian manufacturing context.

  • For (a)(i): Homolytic cleavage of benzoyl peroxide to benzoyloxy radicals, then phenyl radicals; initiation by addition to ethylene; propagation with radical chain growth; termination by coupling or disproportionation
  • For (a)(ii): Isotactic PS has regular packing, high crystallinity, higher Tm and mechanical strength; syndiotactic has alternating stereochemistry with moderate crystallinity; atactic is amorphous, transparent, lower Tg, used in disposable cups
  • For (b): Photoirradiation of compound A (typically a carbonyl or alkene) generates excited singlet/triplet states; Norrish Type I or II cleavage, or [2+2] cycloaddition leads to products B and C with complete arrow-pushing mechanisms
  • For (c): A is cyclohexanone; B is cyclohexene; C is HBr or NBS/hν; D is 3-bromocyclohexene epoxide; mechanism shows NaBH4 delivering hydride to carbonyl, alkoxide protonation, then acid-catalyzed dehydration
  • For (c) mechanism: Concerted or stepwise hydride transfer, axial/equatorial stereochemistry consideration, formation of tetrahedral intermediate
  • Industrial context: LDPE/HDPE production in India (Reliance, GAIL); polystyrene applications in packaging and insulation
Q7
50M calculate Spectroscopy and structure elucidation

(a) Calculate the value of λ_max in the following compounds using Woodward-Fieser rules : [structures A, B, C] (15 marks) (b) Predict the structure of X, Y and Z in the following sequence of reactions : [reaction scheme with structures] (15 marks) (c) (i) Given below are the NMR spectral characteristics of two isomeric compounds with molecular formula C₁₀H₁₂O₂ : (1) ¹H NMR : δ 2·0 (3H, s), 2·93 (2H, t), 4·3 (2H, t), 7·3 (5H, s) (2) ¹H NMR : δ 1·23 (3H, t), 3·72 (2H, s), 4·13 (2H, q), 7·3 (5H, s) Both of these compounds exhibit a peculiar peak in IR spectra at 1730 cm⁻¹. Deduce the structures of these two compounds. (10 marks) (ii) In the mass spectra of compounds I and II, prominent peaks at m/z 58 and m/z 92 are observed, respectively. Write the structures of the fragment ions and discuss their formation : I : [structure], m/z 58 II : [structure], m/z 92 (10 marks)

हिंदी में पढ़ें

(a) वुडवर्ड-फीजर नियमों का उपयोग कर निम्नलिखित यौगिकों के λ_max के मान की गणना कीजिए : [संरचनाएँ A, B, C] (15 अंक) (b) निम्नलिखित अभिक्रिया क्रम में X, Y तथा Z की संरचना का अनुमान लगाइए : [अभिक्रिया योजना संरचनाओं सहित] (15 अंक) (c) (i) दो समावयवी यौगिकों के, जिनका आण्विक सूत्र C₁₀H₁₂O₂ है, NMR स्पेक्ट्रमी अभिलक्षण नीचे दिए गए हैं : (1) ¹H NMR : δ 2·0 (3H, s), 2·93 (2H, t), 4·3 (2H, t), 7·3 (5H, s) (2) ¹H NMR : δ 1·23 (3H, t), 3·72 (2H, s), 4·13 (2H, q), 7·3 (5H, s) ये दोनों यौगिक IR स्पेक्ट्रा में 1730 cm⁻¹ पर एक विशेष शिखर दर्शाते हैं। इन दोनों यौगिकों की संरचना लिखिए। (10 अंक) (ii) यौगिकों I तथा II के द्रव्यमान स्पेक्ट्रा में प्रमुख शिखर क्रमशः : m/z 58 तथा m/z 92 पर दर्शाते हैं। इन खंड आयनों की संरचनाएँ लिखिए तथा इनके बनने पर विवेचन कीजिए : I : [संरचना], m/z 58 II : [संरचना], m/z 92 (10 अंक)

Answer approach & key points

Begin with the directive 'calculate' for part (a), applying Woodward-Fieser rules systematically for each enone/dienone structure. Allocate approximately 35% time to part (a) due to its 15 marks, 30% to part (b) for reaction sequence elucidation, 20% to part (c)(i) for NMR/IR spectral interpretation, and 15% to part (c)(ii) for mass fragmentation mechanisms. Structure the answer with clear sub-headings for each part, showing stepwise calculations first, then structural deductions with spectral reasoning, and concluding with fragmentation pathway diagrams.

  • Part (a): Correct application of Woodward-Fieser rules—base value identification, increment addition for substituents (alkyl, exocyclic double bond, extended conjugation), and final λ_max calculation for each compound
  • Part (b): Logical deduction of structures X, Y, and Z through analysis of reagents, reaction conditions, and stereochemical outcomes in the given sequence
  • Part (c)(i): Structure elucidation of C₁₀H₁₂O₂ isomers—identification of phenylacetate ester vs. benzyl acetate from NMR splitting patterns and IR carbonyl stretch
  • Part (c)(ii): McLafferty rearrangement mechanism for m/z 58 fragment from compound I and retro-Diels-Alder or α-cleavage pathway for m/z 92 from compound II
  • Spectral correlation: Integration of IR (1730 cm⁻¹ ester), ¹H NMR (chemical shift, multiplicity, integration), and MS fragmentation data for unambiguous structure proof
  • Numerical precision: Correct arithmetic in Woodward-Fieser calculations and accurate mass-to-charge ratio assignments in fragmentation analysis
Q8
50M explain Spectroscopy, photochemistry and physical chemistry

(a) Ethanolic solution of compound I on irradiation leads to the formation of compounds II, III and IV. The resulting reaction mixture exhibits bands at 1787, 1740, 1715 and 1685 cm⁻¹ for νC=O. Assign these C=O stretching frequencies to the corresponding compounds giving reasons : (15 marks) (b) (i) 2,2-Dimethyl cyclopropanone undergoes ring opening when attacked by methoxide ion and the product obtained possesses the following spectral data : IR (ν, cm⁻¹) : 1740, 1160 ¹H NMR (δ) : 3·6 (3H, s), 1·2 (9H, s) Mass (m/z) : 116, 85, 59, 31 Deduce the structure of the product with reasons. Write down the structure of another possible product. (10 marks) (ii) Arrange the following compounds in the order of increasing coupling constant values (J_{Ha-Hb}) : I II III (5 marks) (c) (i) 2-Chloro-2,3-dimethyl butane on dehydrohalogenation can lead to the formation of two products. Explain how the two can be distinguished using ¹H NMR and IR spectral data. (10 marks) (ii) The mass spectral data of diethyl ether is as under : m/z 74, m/z 59, m/z 45, m/z 31, m/z 29 Explain the fragmentation pattern. (5 marks) (iii) Using the following data, calculate the bond length of HCl : I = 2·70×10⁻⁴⁷ kg m² 1 a.m.u. = 1·661×10⁻²⁷ kg (5 marks)

हिंदी में पढ़ें

(a) यौगिक I के एथेनॉलिक विलयन का किरणन करने पर यौगिक II, III तथा IV बनते हैं। परिणामी अभिक्रिया मिश्रण 1787, 1740, 1715 तथा 1685 cm⁻¹ पर कार्बोनिल (νC=O) बैंड दर्शाता है। इन C=O तरंग आवृत्तियों को संबंधित यौगिकों में निर्दिष्ट कीजिए तथा उसका कारण दीजिए : (15 अंक) (b) (i) 2,2-डाइमेथिल साइक्लोप्रोपेनोन की मेथॉक्साइड आयन के साथ अभिक्रिया में वलय विवर्तन हो जाता है एवं बनने वाले उत्पाद का स्पेक्ट्रमी आँकड़ा निम्नलिखित है : IR (ν, cm⁻¹) : 1740, 1160 ¹H NMR (δ) : 3·6 (3H, s), 1·2 (9H, s) Mass (m/z) : 116, 85, 59, 31 कारणों के साथ उत्पाद की संरचना निकालिए। दूसरे संभावित उत्पाद की संरचना लिखिए। (10 अंक) (ii) निम्नलिखित यौगिकों को उनके युग्मन स्थिरांक मानों (J_{Ha-Hb}) के आरोही क्रमानुसार व्यवस्थित कीजिए : I II III (5 अंक) (c) (i) 2-क्लोरो-2,3-डाइमेथिल ब्यूटेन के विहाइड्रोहैलोजनन से दो उत्पाद बन सकते हैं। व्याख्या कीजिए कि ¹H NMR तथा IR स्पेक्ट्रमी आँकड़ों द्वारा दोनों उत्पादों का विभेदन कैसे कर सकते हैं। (10 अंक) (ii) डाइएथिल ईथर का द्रव्यमान स्पेक्ट्रमी आँकड़ा इस प्रकार दिया गया है : m/z 74, m/z 59, m/z 45, m/z 31, m/z 29 खंड प्रतिरूप की व्याख्या कीजिए। (5 अंक) (iii) निम्नलिखित आँकड़ों के द्वारा HCl की आबंध लंबाई की गणना कीजिए : I = 2·70×10⁻⁴⁷ kg m² 1 a.m.u. = 1·661×10⁻²⁷ kg (5 अंक)

Answer approach & key points

This question demands explanation of spectroscopic assignments, structural elucidation, and calculations across five sub-parts. Allocate approximately 30% time/words to part (a) [15 marks] covering Norrish Type I/II photochemistry and carbonyl stretching frequency assignments; 20% to (b)(i) [10 marks] for ring-opening mechanism and spectral interpretation; 10% to (b)(ii) [5 marks] for dihedral angle-coupling constant relationship; 20% to (c)(i) [10 marks] for elimination product distinction; and 20% combined to (c)(ii)-(iii) [10 marks] for fragmentation pattern and bond length calculation. Structure as: brief introduction on spectroscopic principles, systematic treatment of each sub-part with structures and reasoning, and concluding summary.

  • Part (a): Assignment of 1787 cm⁻¹ to strained ketone (II), 1740 cm⁻¹ to ester (III), 1715 cm⁻¹ to ketone (IV), and 1685 cm⁻¹ to α,β-unsaturated ketone with explanation of ring strain, conjugation, and hydrogen bonding effects on νC=O
  • Part (b)(i): Structure elucidation as methyl 3,3-dimethylbutanoate from IR (ester C=O and C-O), NMR (OCH₃ singlet, t-butyl singlet), and MS (m/z 116 molecular ion, McLafferty rearrangement to m/z 85); alternative product as methyl 2,2-dimethylpropanoate from nucleophilic attack at less hindered carbon
  • Part (b)(ii): Correct order of J(Ha-Hb) based on Karplus equation: I (anti-periplanar, ~16-18 Hz) > III (gauche, ~2-4 Hz) > II (near 90°, ~0-1 Hz) or equivalent based on given structures
  • Part (c)(i): Distinction between 2,3-dimethyl-2-butene (more substituted, IR weak/absent =C-H stretch, NMR vinylic H absent) and 2,3-dimethyl-1-butene (less substituted, IR =C-H stretch ~3100 cm⁻¹, NMR two vinylic H signals, coupling pattern)
  • Part (c)(ii): Fragmentation pattern of diethyl ether: m/z 74 (M⁺•), m/z 59 (α-cleavage losing CH₃•), m/z 45 (α-cleavage losing C₂H₅•), m/z 31 (CH₂=OH⁺ base peak), m/z 29 (C₂H₅⁺)
  • Part (c)(iii): Calculation of reduced mass μ = (1×35.5)/(1+35.5) × 1.661×10⁻²⁷ kg, then bond length r = √(I/μ) = 1.27 Å or equivalent correct calculation with proper unit conversion

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