C3.6 Alcohols, Carboxylic Acids and Esters Flashcards
What are alcohols?
A group of compounds that all contain an -OH group
What is the -OH group in alcohols an example of?
A functional group
What is a functional group?
A group of atoms responsible for the chemical properties of a compound
The alcohols are an example of a homologous series, what is a homologous series?
A group of chemicals that react in a similar way because they have the same functional group
What is the general formula for an alcohol?
CₙH₂ₙ₊₁ –> n = the number of carbons
What rule is applied to the name of alcohols?
They all end in ‘-ol’
What are the first 3 alcohols in the homologous series ?
Methanol, ethanol and propanol
Do alcohols contain double bonds?
No
How can you identify if a compound is an alcohol? (2)
Look for the ‘-OH’ group or see if it’s name ends in ‘-ol’
Are alcohols flammable?
Yes, they burn in air to produce carbon dioxide and water
Do the first three alcohols dissolve in water?
Yes, they all dissolve completely to form neutral solutions
How do alcohols react with sodium?
They react to give hydrogen and alkoxides
What are the three main uses of alcohols?
Alcoholic drinks, solvents, and fuel
What is the most commonly used alcohol in alcoholic drinks?
Ethanol, when consumed it causes damage to the liver and brain
What solvents are alcohols used in?
Ethanol is used in perfumes and after shave lotions, and ethanol is used to make methylated spirit which cleans paint brushes
Why is methylated spirit dyed a purply-blue colour?
Because it is poisonous to drink
What are the benefits of using ethanol as a fuel? (4)
It burns fairly cleanly, it’s non-smelly, it comes from a renewable source, and third world countries can grow loads of sugar cane which is fermented to make ethanol