Which of the following reactions can be used for the conversion of ethyl alcohol into acetaldehyde?
Correct answer: B. Oxidation
- A. Polymerization
- B. Oxidation
- C. Esterification
- D. Reduction
Explanation
The correct answer is Option B: Oxidation. Ethyl alcohol (ethanol) can be oxidized to form acetaldehyde (ethanal) through the process of dehydrogenation, often using oxidizing agents such as potassium dichromate or other suitable oxidizers. The other options are incorrect for the following reasons: - Option A: Polymerization is not applicable here as it does not lead to the formation of acetaldehyde from ethyl alcohol. - Option C: Esterification results in the formation of esters rather than aldehydes, specifically yielding ethyl acetate when ethyl alcohol reacts with acetic acid. - Option D: Reduction of ethyl alcohol leads to the formation of ethane, which is not the desired product. Therefore, oxidation is the correct pathway for converting ethyl alcohol into acetaldehyde.
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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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