What is X in the following reaction `CH_3NH_2+X + KOH to CH_3NC` (highly offensive odour)

Options

A. `CH_(2)CI_(2)`
B. `CHCI_(3)`
C. `CH_(3)CI_`
D. `CCI_(4)`

Answer

To determine what X is in the reaction \( CH_3NH_2 + X + KOH \rightarrow CH_3NC \), we can follow these steps:

### Step 1: Identify the Reactants
The reactants in the equation are:
- \( CH_3NH_2 \) (methylamine), which is a primary amine.
- \( KOH \) (potassium hydroxide), which is a strong base.
- We need to identify \( X \).

### Step 2: Understand the Product
The product of the reaction is \( CH_3NC \), which is methyl isocyanide (also known as carbylamine). This compound is known for its highly offensive odor.

### Step 3: Recall the Carbylamine Reaction
The formation of isocyanides from primary amines is known as the carbylamine reaction. This reaction typically involves the reaction of a primary amine with chloroform (\( CHCl_3 \)) in the presence of a strong base like alcoholic KOH.

### Step 4: Write the Balanced Equation
The balanced equation for the carbylamine reaction can be written as:
\[ CH_3NH_2 + CHCl_3 + 3 KOH \rightarrow CH_3NC + 3 KCl + 3 H_2O \]
This shows that \( X \) must be chloroform (\( CHCl_3 \)).

### Step 5: Conclusion
Thus, the compound \( X \) in the reaction is chloroform (\( CHCl_3 \)).

### Final Answer
**X is chloroform (\( CHCl_3 \)).**

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