Lucas test :1° alcohol takes 2-3 hrs to give precipitate while 2° alc gives it in 10-15 mins

Introduction:
Propan-1-ol and propan-2-ol are two isomeric alcohols with the same molecular formula, C3H8O, but different structural arrangements. They can be distinguished based on their oxidation reactions, which involve the loss or gain of electrons.

Oxidation of Propan-1-ol:
Propan-1-ol can undergo oxidation reactions to form various products depending on the conditions. Here are the key points to consider:

1. Oxidizing Agents: Propan-1-ol can be oxidized by various oxidizing agents such as potassium dichromate (K2Cr2O7) or acidified potassium permanganate (KMnO4).

2. Reaction Products: The primary oxidation product of propan-1-ol is propanal (also known as propionaldehyde). This occurs through the oxidation of the alcohol functional group (-OH) to an aldehyde functional group (-CHO). Further oxidation of propanal can lead to the formation of propanoic acid.

3. Observation: The oxidation of propan-1-ol can be visually observed by the change in color of the oxidizing agent or the formation of a precipitate.

4. Chemical Equations: The oxidation of propan-1-ol can be represented by the following balanced chemical equation:
Propan-1-ol + [O] → Propanal + H2O
Propanal + [O] → Propanoic acid

Oxidation of Propan-2-ol:
Propan-2-ol can also undergo oxidation reactions, but the products and reactions differ from those of propan-1-ol. Here are the key points to consider:

1. Oxidizing Agents: Propan-2-ol can be oxidized by strong oxidizing agents such as potassium dichromate (K2Cr2O7) or acidified potassium permanganate (KMnO4).

2. Reaction Products: The primary oxidation product of propan-2-ol is acetone. This occurs through the oxidation of the alcohol functional group (-OH) to a ketone functional group (C=O). Further oxidation of acetone is not favorable under mild conditions.

3. Observation: The oxidation of propan-2-ol can be visually observed by the change in color of the oxidizing agent or the formation of a precipitate.

4. Chemical Equation: The oxidation of propan-2-ol can be represented by the following balanced chemical equation:
Propan-2-ol + [O] → Acetone + H2O

Conclusion:
In summary, propan-1-ol and propan-2-ol can be distinguished based on their oxidation reactions. Propan-1-ol undergoes oxidation to form propanal and further oxidation to propanoic acid, while propan-2-ol is oxidized to acetone. These different products and reactions allow for the differentiation of these two isomeric alcohols.