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The oxidising agent used to convert alcohols into carboxylic acid is:
  • a)
    Conc. sulphuric acid
  • b)
    Phosphorus trichloride
  • c)
    Alkaline Potassium permanganate
  • d)
    Sodium
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?
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The oxidising agent used to convert alcohols into carboxylic acid is:a...
Pottassium permanganate is a very strong oxidant able to react with many functional groups, such as secondary alcohols, 1,2-diols , aldehydes, alkenes, oxides, sulphides and thiols. Under controlled conditions potassium permanganate oxidizes primary alcohols into alcoholic acids very efficiently. I think you understand this.
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The oxidising agent used to convert alcohols into carboxylic acid is:a...
Overview of Alcohol Oxidation
Alcohols can be oxidized to form various products, including aldehydes, ketones, and carboxylic acids. The choice of oxidizing agent significantly influences the oxidation pathway.
Oxidizing Agents
Different oxidizing agents can yield different results:
  • Conc. Sulphuric Acid: This is primarily a dehydrating agent and not effective for oxidizing alcohols to carboxylic acids.
  • Phosphorus Trichloride: This is a reagent used for converting alcohols to alkyl chlorides, not for oxidation.
  • Alkaline Potassium Permanganate: This is a strong oxidizing agent that can oxidize primary alcohols directly to carboxylic acids.
  • Sodium: This is a reducing agent and does not facilitate the oxidation of alcohols.

Why Alkaline Potassium Permanganate?
  • Strong Oxidizing Properties: Alkaline potassium permanganate (KMnO4) is well-known for its ability to oxidize alcohols effectively.
  • Primary Alcohols: It specifically oxidizes primary alcohols to carboxylic acids without overoxidizing to other products.
  • Reaction Conditions: Under alkaline conditions, KMnO4 reacts with alcohols, ensuring complete oxidation to the desired carboxylic acid.

Conclusion
In summary, the correct choice for converting alcohols into carboxylic acids is alkaline potassium permanganate due to its strong oxidizing capabilities and its effectiveness in achieving the desired transformation without side reactions.
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