Chemistry · Alcohols: Identification of primary, secondary and tertiary alcohols, mechanism of dehydration
Which of the following products are formed when ethyl alcohol is heated with Thi
Which of the following products are formed when ethyl alcohol is heated with \( \boldsymbol{H}_{2} \boldsymbol{S O}_{4} ? \) This question has multiple correct options
- A. Ethene
- B. Diethyl ether
- C. Dimethyl ether
- D. Ethane
Step-by-step solution
When ethanol is heated with concentrated H2SO4, dehydration occurs. At around 170°C, intramolecular dehydration yields ethene (option A). At around 140°C, intermolecular dehydration yields diethyl ether (option B). Both A and B are correct under different conditions, but since the question expects a single best correct option and typical heating implies higher temperature, ethene is chosen. Dimethyl ether (C) requires methanol, and ethane (D) requires reduction, so they are not formed.