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Which of the following alcohols undergoes the quickest reaction with concentrated HCl in the presence of anhydrous ZnCl2?

1. Butan-2-ol
2. 2-Methylpropan-2-ol
3. 2-Methylpropan-1-ol
4. Butan-1-ol

Correct answer: 2-Methylpropan-2-ol

Solution

2-Methylpropan-2-ol is a tertiary alcohol, which means it has three alkyl groups attached to the carbon bearing the hydroxyl group. This structure allows for greater stability of the carbocation intermediate formed during the reaction with concentrated HCl and ZnCl2, leading to a faster reaction compared to primary or secondary alcohols.

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