What is the result of oxidation of ethyl alcohol?

see full answer

Your Exam Success, Personally Taken Care Of

1:1 expert mentors customize learning to your strength and weaknesses – so you score higher in school , IIT JEE and NEET entrance exams.

An Intiative by Sri Chaitanya

(Unlock A.I Detailed Solution for FREE)

Best Courses for You

JEE

NEET

Foundation JEE

Foundation NEET

CBSE

Detailed Solution

The oxidation of ethyl alcohol first produces acetaldehyde and then acetic acid. Ethyl alcohol (ethanol) is a simple alcohol used in beverages, fuels, and industry. When ethanol undergoes oxidation, it reacts with oxidizing agents like potassium dichromate (K₂Cr₂O₇) or potassium permanganate (KMnO₄) in the presence of acid to form new compounds.

Oxidation Process

Step 1: Ethanol (C₂H₅OH) is oxidized to acetaldehyde (CH₃CHO).
Step 2: Acetaldehyde is further oxidized to acetic acid (CH₃COOH).

Chemical Reactions

Step 1: C₂H₅OH + [O] → CH₃CHO + H₂O

Step 2: CH₃CHO + [O] → CH₃COOH

Practical Importance

Industrial Use: Acetic acid is used in vinegar and as a chemical solvent.
Biological Use: In the human liver, ethanol is oxidized by enzymes to prevent toxicity.
Fuel Use: Oxidation of ethanol releases energy and is used in biofuels.