Q17 of 23 Page 157

Why are carboxylic acids called weak acids? Name the alcohol which produces methanoic acid on oxidation.

The strength of acid is determined by its ability to produce H+ in solutions. Unlike mineral acids, the carboxylic acids (of the form RCOOH) do not completely ionise. They partially ionise to give H+ and RCOO-. Therefore they are called weak acids.

Methanol on oxidation in the presence of a strong oxidising agent like alkaline KMnO4 produces methanoic acid.



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Which property of ethanol makes it suitable for preparing medicines such as tincture of iodine, cough syrups and other tonics?

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What is the function of conc.H2SO4 in the formation of ethene from ethanol?

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Complete the following reactions:

(i) CH3COOH + NaOH →


(ii)


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(iv) CH2 = CH2 + Br →


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(i) Why do we add ethanol to petrol in these days?

(ii) Give one use of ethanol in medicines.


(iii) Why is vinegar used in pickles?