Final answer:
The stereoisomers formed in the acid-catalyzed dehydration of 1-pentanol and 3,4-dimethyl-3-hexanol are cis and trans alkenes, with the trans isomers usually being the major products due to lower steric strain. So the correct answer is option B.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the process of dehydrating alcohols to alkenes using an acid catalyst, The dehydration of 1-pentanol can yield 2-pentene in both its cis (or Z) and trans (or E) forms; however, the transform is usually the predominant result because of its reduced steric strain.
Stereoisomers like cis and trans-3,4-dimethyl-3-hexene can develop when 3,4-dimethyl-3-hexanol dehydrates. Since both have the same steric properties, the trans isomer is usually the main product. Stereochemistry and positional isomers are concepts that are related to these reactions.
Stereochemical outcomes might vary under different conditions. Generally, the trans (E) isomer tends to be more stable in simple alkene systems, while more substituted alkenes are favored due to stability in complex alkene formations.