Question

Write the chemical formula and name of the compound which is the active ingredient of all alcoholic drinks. List its two uses. Write chemical equation and name of the product formed when this compound reacts with

(i) Sodium metal

(ii) Hot concentrated sulphuric acid

Answer 1

(i) Chemical formula - CH3CH2OH

Name of compound - Ethanol

Two uses of ethanol

(1) It is used as a fuel

(2) It is used as and anti bacterial hand sanitizer gels as an antiseptic

CH3CH2OH + Na → CH3CH2ONa + H2

∴ Hydrogen gas is evolved.

(ii) Ethanol on reacting with hot concentrate sulphuric acid produces ethene and water.

CH3–CH2–OH → (H2SO4 + Heat) → CH2 = CH2 + H2O