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Lucas Test
Distinguish 1°, 2°, 3° alcohols using Lucas Reagent (ZnCl₂ + conc. HCl). Watch for turbidity!
How It Works
1
Three Unknown Alcohols
Tubes A, B, C contain 1°, 2°, and 3° alcohols — identify which is which.
2
Add Lucas Reagent
Lucas Reagent (ZnCl₂ + conc. HCl) reacts differently with each alcohol type.
3
Observe Turbidity
Immediate cloudiness = 3° alcohol. Slow (5 min) = 2° alcohol. No reaction = 1° alcohol.
Reaction Key
3° Alcohol:
+ Lucas Reagent → Immediate turbidity
2° Alcohol:
+ Lucas Reagent → Turbidity in ~5 min
1° Alcohol:
+ Lucas Reagent → No turbidity at RT