Question

3. A compound X is formed by the reaction of a
carboxylic acid C2H4O2 and an alcohol in presence
of a few drops of H2SO4. The alcohol on oxidation
with alkaline KMnO4 followed by acidification gives
the same carboxylic acid as used in this reaction.
Give the names and structures of (a) carboxylic acid,
(b) alcohol and (c) the compound X. Also write the
reaction.
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Answer 1

Answer. The above reaction is esterification reaction. Given that the alcohol upon oxidation with alkaline KMnO4 gives the carboxylic acid C2H4O2. ... Therefore, the alcohol is ethanol and the carboxylic acid is ethanoic acid.