Alcohols, Carboxylic Acids and Esters

Alcohols

Homologous series -OH
All end in 'ol'
1. methanol 2. ethanol 3. propanol <-- dissolve completely in water, neutral solutions

(http://wps.prenhall.com/wps/media/objects/165/169289/GIFS/BLB9CH0209-006.gif)

Flammable- burn in air --> water + carbon dioxide
React with sodium --> alkoxide + hydrogen e.g. ethanol --> ethoxide + hydrogen
Ethanol - alcoholic drinks, damages the liver and brain
Used as:
-fuel (clean)
-very useful as solvents (dissolves substances water cannot)
-methylated spirit --> ethanol with chemicals added, very poisonous

1 of 3

(http://secondaryscience4all.files.wordpress.com/2014/08/gcse-carboxylic-acids-e1407804022284.jpg)

React like any other carbonates --> produce salt + water + carbon dioxide
The salts formed end in 'anoate'
Dissolve in water --> weak acidic solutions, partially ionised so an acid of the same concentration may have a more acidic pH
Ethanoic acid is oxidised ethanol (dissolved in water makes vinegar), preserving foods etc
Citric acid- oranges and lemons, lots produced- production of fizzy drinks and get rid of scale

2 of 3

Homologous series -COO-
End in 'yl' and then 'anoate'
Alcohol + carboxylic acid --> ester + water
An acid catalyst is usually used such as sulfuric acid
1. Ethyl Ethanoate
Ethanol + Ethanoic Acid --> Ethyl Ethanoate + Water
The alcohol is the 'yl', the carboxylic acid is the 'anoate'
Properties and Uses:
-smelly & fruity
-volatile (evaporate easily) & flammable (dangerous)
-perfumes
-sweets
-paint
-nail varnish remover
Fumes can irritate mucus membranes and they're toxic --> health issues
However, they're not as volatile or as toxic as some organic solvents and esters have actually replaced some of these

3 of 3