Question

An organic compound A having molecular formula C2H4O2 reacts with sodium metal and evolves a gas B which readily catches ****. A also reacts with ethanol in the presence of conc H2SO4 to form sweet smelling substance C used in making perfumes.

(i) Identify the compounds A, B and C and write their names.

(ii) Write balanced chemical equations to represent conversion of

(a) compound A into compound B

(b) compound A into compound C

(iii) Write the chemical composition of detergents. Mention their advantage over soaps for washing clothes.

Answer 1

1. (i) A is CH3COOH (ethanoic acid)

B is H2 (Hydrogen gas)

C is CH3COOC2H5 (Ethyl ethanoate)

(iii) Chemically, detergents are ammonium or sulphonate salts of long chain carboxylic acid. Detergents can be effectively used in hard water whereas soaps cannot be used.