Alcohols

Question 1

Explain the oxidation reactions alcohols can undergo, including reagents and conditions

Answer 1

Reagents: H2SO4 and K2CrO7

1) Partial oxidation of primary alcohols —> Aldehydes
- distill off

2) Full oxidation of oxidation of primary alcohols —> carboxylic acids
- reflux

3) Full oxidation of secondary alcohols —> ketones
- reflux

Tertiary alcohols are too stable to undergo oxidations

Question 3

Explain why alcohols are good for combustion

Answer 3

Alcohols burn readily and are cleaner, renewable

BUT lower enthalpy of combustion and so less energy per gram

Question 5

Explain the stability within alcohols

Answer 5

Tertiary alcohols are the most stable.

3 > 2 > 1

Primary are the least stable

Question 7

Explain the intermolecular bonding within alcohols

Answer 7

The OH group in alcohols takes part in hydrogen bonding. This causes alcohols to have higher melting and boiling points, lower validity, and more soluble in water due to hydrogen bonding.