When n-butyl and n-propyl are used instead of n-amyl chloride in preparation of organosodium compounds, the change to alkyl radicals of lower molecular weight is progressively accompanied by (1) more difficulty in effecting reaction between alkyl chloride and sodium metal,(2) poorer yields,(3) greater tendency foward disproportionation as judged by the proportion of malonic acid formed when the organosodium compounds are ...