McMurry (kap 13.0) - alcohols, phenols, thiols, ethers and sulfides

Question 1

What are some of the oxygen containing functional groups?

Answer 1

Alcohols, phenols and ethers - organic derivatives of water - one or both of water hydrogens is replaced with an organic group.

Thiols and sulfides are sulfur analogs.

Question 2

How important is alcohol and how is it produced?

Answer 2

Catalytic reduction of carbon monoxide with hydrogen (page 436).

Ethanol for industrial use as a solvent (a solvent is a substance, typically a liquid, that dissolves a solute (a solid, liquid, or gas) to form a solution) or chemical intermediate is largely obtained by acid-catalyssized hydration of ethylene at high temparatures.

Question 3

Are phenols important?

Answer 3

Yes, they are widely found in living prganisms, and are intermediates in industrial synthesis of products as adhesives and antiseptics.

Question 4

Are thiols and sulfides important?

Answer 4

Are found in various biomolecules - not as common as oxygen containing relatives.