How will you distinguish between ethanol and methanol?
Correct answer: C. Iodoform test
- A. Baeyer's test
- B. Lucas test
- C. Iodoform test
- D. Tollen's reagent test
Explanation
The iodoform test is used to distinguish between ethanol and methanol. When ethanol reacts with iodine and sodium hydroxide (NaOH), it forms a yellow precipitate of iodoform (CHI3), which is insoluble in water. This reaction is specific to ethanol and does not occur with methanol. Methanol does not give a positive iodoform test because it lacks the necessary structure to undergo the reaction that leads to iodoform formation.
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About Alcohols and Phenols
Alcohols are classified as primary, secondary or tertiary and studied through their hydrogen bonding, acidity, oxidation and reactions with active metals, acids and halogenating agents. Phenols require separate treatment because the hydroxyl group is attached to an aromatic ring, making their acidity and electrophilic substitution different from ordinary alcohols.
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