3.6 Alcohols, carboxylic acids and esters Flashcards
How are carboxylic acids formed?
By the oxidisation of alcohols
What are the two ways that alcohols can be oxidised?
- Through microbial action
2. Reacting with a chemical oxidising agent
What is an example of a chemical oxidising agent?
Potassium Dichromate
What acid is the main part of vinegar?
Ethanoic acid
What sort of pH do carboxylic acids have and why?
High pH values for acids. This is because the only partially ionise.
What substance is formed by the oxidisation of ethanol?
Ethanoic acid
Why does the fermentation of beer and wine have to take place in the absence of air?
The oxygen in air would react with the acids to cause a carboxylic acid to form.
What is the formula of methanoic acid?
HCOOH
What is the formula of ethanoic acid?
CH3COOH
What is the formula of propanoic acid?
C2H5COOH
What does ethanoic acid smell of?
Vinegar
What colour does universal indicator paper go when dipped in ethanoic acid?
Orange
What is a carboxylic acid?
A weak acid that only partially ionises in a solution
What pH do alcohols have when dissolved in water and why?
A neutral pH, because they can’t gain or lose hydroxide (OH) ions
What happens when you add sodium to alcohols?
Effervescence as hydrogen is being given off. This can be tested with the squeaky pop.