Question

Based on solubility, boiling point, and spectroscopic results, a chemist identified an unknown compound as an alcohol. Yet when she tried to confirm this conclusion using a chromic acid test, she got a negative result. All of her results were correct. How is that possible? Briefly explain.

Answer 1

The compound was a 3° alcohol.

Step-by-step explanation:

The chromic acid test is positive for 1° and 2° alcohols, but negative for 3° alcohols.