Question 1:

How would you distinguish experimentally between an alcohol and a carboxylic acid?

Answer:

We can distinguish between an alcohol and a carboxylic acid on the basis of their

reaction with carbonates and hydrogen carbonates. Acid reacts with carbonate and

hydrogen carbonate to evolve CO₂ gas that turns lime water milky.

Metal Carbonate/Metal Hydrogencarbonate + Carboxylic acid

                                                      ↓

                                Salt + Water + Carbon dioxide

Alcohols, on the other hand, do not react with carbonates and hydrogen carbonates.

Latest Govt Job & Exam Updates:

View Full List ...