Alcohols, Acids Flashcards
(25 cards)
What is the general formula for alcohols?
CₙH₂ₙ₊₁OH
What functional group do alcohols contain?
–OH (hydroxyl group)
What is the first member of the alcohol homologous series?
Methanol (CH₃OH)
What is the second member of the alcohol homologous series?
Ethanol (C₂H₅OH)
How can alcohols be produced?
By fermentation or by hydration of alkenes.
What conditions are needed for fermentation?
Yeast, 30°C, absence of oxygen (anaerobic conditions).
What is the word equation for fermentation?
Glucose → Ethanol + Carbon dioxide
How can ethanol be made from ethene?
By reacting ethene with steam in the presence of a catalyst.
Are alcohols soluble in water?
Yes – they form neutral solutions.
What happens when alcohols burn?
They combust to form carbon dioxide and water.
What is the word equation for complete combustion of ethanol?
Ethanol + Oxygen → Carbon dioxide + Water
What is produced when alcohols react with sodium?
Hydrogen gas and a salt.
What happens when alcohols are oxidised?
They form carboxylic acids.
What is the functional group of carboxylic acids?
–COOH
What is the general formula for carboxylic acids?
CₙH₂ₙ₊₁COOH
What is the first member of the carboxylic acid series?
Methanoic acid (HCOOH)
What is the second member of the carboxylic acid series?
Ethanoic acid (CH₃COOH)
Are carboxylic acids strong or weak acids?
Weak – they do not fully ionise in solution.
How do carboxylic acids behave in water?
They partially ionise, releasing H⁺ ions.
What is the reaction between a carboxylic acid and a metal carbonate?
Carboxylic acid + metal carbonate → salt + water + carbon dioxide
What is the reaction between a carboxylic acid and an alcohol?
Carboxylic acid + alcohol → ester + water
What type of reaction produces esters?
Condensation reaction (esterification).
What is the catalyst for esterification?
Concentrated sulfuric acid.
What are esters used for?
Perfumes, flavourings, and solvents.
