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Which of the following derivatives of alcohols is unstable in an aqueous base ? (1) RO – CMe3 (2) RO – C(=O)Me (3) RO – CH2 – C6H5 (4) a six-membered cyclic ether derivative with RO substituent and one oxygen atom in the ring

1. RO – CMe3
2. RO – C(=O)Me
3. RO – CH2 – C6H5
4. a six-membered cyclic ether derivative with RO substituent and one oxygen atom in the ring

Correct answer: RO – C(=O)Me

Solution

The derivative RO – C(=O)Me is unstable in an aqueous base because the carbonyl group can undergo hydrolysis, leading to the formation of a carboxylic acid and making it more susceptible to nucleophilic attack, which destabilizes the compound.

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