How would you synthesise an carboxylic acid just from a primary haloalkane like bromoethane?

Nucleophilic substitution using NaOH to convert haloalkane to primary alcohol. This is a mechanism that you need to know for the exam. Then oxidise the alcohol by refluxing with acidified potassium dichromate to form the carboxylic acid. Reflux needed because if it isn't heated enough, the aldehyde would form instead! Step 1 : RBr + NaOH --> ROH + NaBr Step 2 : ROH + 2[O] --> RCOOH + H2O

OW
Answered by Ollie W. Chemistry tutor

4730 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Describe the arrangement of protons, neutrons and electrons in an atom of Neon (Atomic No. 10, Atomic Weight 20.18). You may use diagrams to aid you.


What are electrophilic addition reactions of alkenes?


Why does a salt not conduct electricity in its solid state?


How do you work out an electron configuration?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning