Question

An organic compound X of molecular formula C2H4O2 turns blue litmus to red and gives brisk effervescence with Na2CO3 and NaHCO3. Identify X and name of the gas responsible for effervescence.

Answer 1

Answer- The above question is from the chapter 'Carbon and its Compounds'.

Molecular formula of X= C₂H₄O₂

It can also be written as CH₃COOH.

⇒ It is acetic acid or ethanoic acid.

We know that ethanoic acid reacts with sodium carbonate as well as sodium bicarbonate to form sodium acetate (CH₃COONa) and gives brisk effervescence i.e. release of carbon dioxide (CO₂) gas.

2CH₃COOH + Na₂CO₃ ---> 2CH₃COONa + CO₂ + H₂O

CH₃COOH + NaHCO₃ ---> CH₃COONa + CO₂ + H₂O

∴ X= Ethanoic acid

Name of gas responsible for effervescence= Carbon dioxide gas

Answer 2

Answer:

ethanoic acid

Explanation:

X is ethanoic acid (CH3COOH). It is acidic and hence turns blue litmus red. It releases carbon dioxide (CO2) when treated with Na2CO3 and NaHCO3 which is responsible for effervescence.