Question

why is the conversion of ethanol to ethanoic acid an oxidation reaction

Answer 1

Because in this reaction 2 hydrogen atoms are lost and one oxygen atom is gained.
Ethanol- C2H5OH or CH3CH2OH.
Ethanoic acid- CH3COOH.

Hope it helps you!!!

Answer 2

Hi,

Here is your answer

Becuase in the reaction of conversion of ethanol to ethanoic acid, one oxygen atom is added and two hydrogen atoms are lost.

Loss of hydrogen and gain of oxygen is called oxidation.
Ethanol → C2H5OH
Ethanoic acid → CH3COOH

So, this reaction is considered an oxidation reaction.

I hope I have cleared your doubt.