Formation of Alcohols

Hydration of ethene

H2C=CH2 + H20 ---> CH3CH2OH         Regents = H3PO4 and 300C  60atm

Problems - uses non-renewable reactants

                - uses large amounts of energy

Fermentaion of Sugars or Carbohydrates

C6H12O6 -----> 2CH3CH2OH + 2CO2     Regents = Yeast and 37C

Problems - Produces only 14% alcohol

                 - Needs to be carried out in the absence of air as is anerobic