Question

An organic compound ’A’ of molecular formula C2H6O on oxidation with dilute alkaline KMnO4 solution gives an acid ’B' with the same number of carbon atoms. Compound ’A’ is often used for sterilization of skin by doctors. (a) Name the compounds ‘A’ and ’B’. (b) Write the chemical equation involved in the formation of ‘B' from ’A’.

Answer 1

Hello Friend,

(a) Compounds -

• Compound A => Ethanol (CH3-CH2-OH)
• Compound B => Ethanoic acid (CH3-COOH)

b) Reaction -

Ethanol (compound A) on oxidation with strong oxidizing agent like alk.KMnO4 gives ethanoic acid (compound B).

CH3-CH2-OH + 2[O] --> CH3-COOH + H2O

* If weak oxidizing agent was used, acetaldehyde will be obtained instead of acetic acid.

CH3-CH2-OH + [O] --> CH3-CHO + H2O

Hope I helped you. Thanks for asking...