State the reagents and conditions for the formation of an aldehyde, starting from a primary-alcohol.

Answer: Heat with acidified potassium dichromate (IV), distilling off the aldehyde as it forms.
Explanation: To form an aldehyde from an alcohol the alcohol group must be oxidised. To do this we use potassium dichromate (IV) acidified by dilute sulfuric acid. We also need to heat the reaction mixture to overcome the activation energy required for the reaction. However, we do not want to heat under reflux else the once the aldehyde is formed it will be oxidised further to form a carboxyllic acid. Instead, we distill off the aldehyde product as it is formed.

TO
Answered by Tom O. Chemistry tutor

5334 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

0.28 g of a gaseous hydrocarbon was turned in excess oxygen. 0.88 g of carbon dioxide and 0.36 g of water were formed. The volume of 0.28 g of the hydrocarbon at 1.01 x10^5 Pa and 298 k is 123 cm^3. Work out the molecular formula of the hydrocarbon.


Explain what the rate-determining step in a reaction is with reference to activation energy.


What is the difference between a heterogeneous catalyst and a homogeneous catalyst?


Why does Benzene require a catalyst to react with Bromine whereas Phenol does not?


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