Why is the conversion of ethanol to ethanoic acid an oxidation reactio...
As we can see that in the conversion of ethanol into ethanoic acid their is both addition of oxygen and removal of hydrogen as well. So it is an oxidation reaction....
Why is the conversion of ethanol to ethanoic acid an oxidation reactio...
Introduction:
The conversion of ethanol to ethanoic acid is an oxidation reaction because it involves the loss of hydrogen atoms and gain of oxygen atoms. This process is facilitated by an oxidizing agent, such as potassium dichromate or acidified potassium permanganate.
Explanation:
Oxidation:
In organic chemistry, oxidation refers to a chemical reaction in which an atom or molecule loses electrons, resulting in an increase in its oxidation state. In the case of ethanol to ethanoic acid conversion, the carbon atom in ethanol goes from an oxidation state of +2 to +3, indicating oxidation.
Loss of Hydrogen:
During the oxidation process, ethanol loses two hydrogen atoms in the form of two hydrogen ions (H+). This loss of hydrogen decreases the number of C-H bonds present in the molecule and increases the oxidation state of the carbon atom.
Gain of Oxygen:
Simultaneously, ethanol gains an oxygen atom from the oxidizing agent. The oxygen atom is added to the carbon atom, resulting in the formation of a carbonyl group (C=O). This addition of oxygen leads to an increase in the oxidation state of the carbon atom.
Oxidizing Agent:
An oxidizing agent is required to facilitate the conversion of ethanol to ethanoic acid. Common oxidizing agents used in this reaction include potassium dichromate (K2Cr2O7) or acidified potassium permanganate (KMnO4). These oxidizing agents provide the necessary oxygen atoms to oxidize ethanol.
Reduction:
In contrast to the oxidation of ethanol, the oxidizing agent used in the reaction undergoes reduction. This means that the oxidizing agent gains electrons and decreases its oxidation state.
Summary:
Overall, the conversion of ethanol to ethanoic acid involves the loss of hydrogen atoms from ethanol and the gain of oxygen atoms, resulting in an increase in the oxidation state of the carbon atom. This process requires an oxidizing agent and is classified as an oxidation reaction in organic chemistry.
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