Describe how you could distinguish between ethanol, ethanoic acid, ethyl bromide and 2-methylpropan-1-ol.

First, you should add sodium hydrogen carbonate to all three compounds. Ethanoic acid will react with this to release a gas which will turn limewater cloudy.
Second, you should add acidified potassium dichromate. With ethanol, because it is a primary alcohol, the orange solution will turn to green. With 2-methylpropan-1-ol there will be no colour change because it is a tertiary alcohol.
Finally, the distinguish which solution is ethyl bromide you should add silver nitrate. A cream precipitate will be formed.

Answered by Emma W. Chemistry tutor

5111 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

2-chloropropanoic acid has a Ka of 1.48E-3. Write an expression for Ka and hence or otherwise, calculate the pH of a 0.35M solution of 2-chloropropanoic acid


Describe the shape of and bonding in a molecule of benzine. Explain why benzene doesn't readily undergo reactions.


A solution of ethanoic acid is made by dissolving 3g of pure liquid propanoic acid in 500cm^3 water. Given the pH of the solution is 2.98, calculate Ka.


How would you name complex organic compounds?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences