Question

Write the name and the structural formula of the compound formed when ethanol is heated at 443 K with excess of cone. H2SO4. State the role of conc. H2SO4 in this reaction. Write chemical equation for the reaction. (3)

Answer 1

The product formed is:ethene

H2SO4 is a dehydrating agent. So, ethanol undergoes dehydration i.e., loses a water molecule to form ethene.

Answer 2

The name of the compound formed is ethene .

• The structural formula of ethene is C$_{2}$H$_{4}$ .
• Concentrated H2SO4 is a dehydrating agent . It  helps to remove a water molecule from the ethanol . Thus it is acting like a dehydrating agent in the reaction .
• The chemical equation =>

        C2H5OH -------------> C2H4

         note -> reaction is taking place at 443 K with excess of conc. H2SO4