Which of the following is the least reactive functional group ?

Options

A. Alcohols
B. Ethers
C. Aldehydes
D. Ketones

Answer

To determine which functional group is the least reactive, we need to analyze the reactivity of various functional groups based on their chemical properties. Here’s a step-by-step solution:

### Step 1: Understand Functional Groups
Functional groups are specific groups of atoms within molecules that are responsible for the characteristic chemical reactions of those molecules. Common functional groups include alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, ethers, and more.

### Step 2: Identify Common Functional Groups
Some common functional groups include:
- Aldehydes (RCHO)
- Ketones (RC(=O)R')
- Alcohols (ROH)
- Ethers (R-O-R')

### Step 3: Analyze Reactivity
Reactivity of functional groups varies; some are more reactive than others. Generally, the reactivity order from most to least reactive is:
- Aldehydes > Ketones > Alcohols > Ethers

### Step 4: Determine the Least Reactive Functional Group
From the reactivity order, we can see that ethers are at the bottom of the list, indicating that they are the least reactive functional group among the ones mentioned.

### Conclusion
Thus, the least reactive functional group is **ethers**.

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