Oxidation of Ethylene Glycol
Ethylene glycol, a simple diol, undergoes oxidation when treated with periodic acid (HIO4). This reaction leads to the cleavage of the carbon-carbon bond and the formation of aldehydes or ketones.
Reaction Mechanism
- Ethylene glycol (HO-CH2-CH2-OH) reacts with periodic acid.
- The periodic acid oxidizes each hydroxyl (-OH) group, facilitating the cleavage of the C-C bond.
- The result is the formation of two molecules of formaldehyde (HCHO) from the oxidation of each carbon atom.
Products of the Reaction
- The primary products of this oxidation are:
- 2 molecules of formaldehyde (HCHO).
- The reaction can yield additional products based on the reaction conditions.
Significance of the Reaction
- This oxidation reaction is significant in organic chemistry for:
- Understanding the behavior of polyols in oxidation reactions.
- The utility of periodic acid as a strong oxidizing agent that selectively cleaves carbon-carbon bonds.
Applications
- The products can be further used in various chemical syntheses, including:
- Synthesis of various organic compounds.
- In the production of resins and plastics.
Conclusion
- Oxidation of ethylene glycol with periodic acid is a useful transformation that leads to the formation of aldehydes, showcasing the versatility of periodic acid in organic reactions.

Formaldehyde.
HCHO.