The catalyst used in the preparation of an alkyl chloride by the action of dry HCl on an alcohol is

Options

A. anhydrous `AlCl_(3)`
B. `FeCl_(3)`
C. anhydrous `ZnCl_(2)`
D. Cu

Answer

C

Explanation

Primary and secondary alkyl chlorides are prepared from the respective alcohols by using HCl gas and anhydrous `ZnCl_(2)` (Groove's process).
Note : Tertiary alcohols are very reactive and hence they react readily with conc. HCl even in the absence of `ZnCl_(2)`.