Chapter 23, Problem 54A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: To write the structures of the alcohols that are oxidized to give each carbonyl compounds that are mentioned.

Concept Introduction: Alcohols are converted to carbonyl compounds by a process called oxidation. This oxidation takes place in the presence of oxidizing agents and some catalysts. Oxidation is generally the loss of hydrogen. Therefore, alcohols lose hydrogen to form carbonyl compounds.

Answer to Problem 54A

Methanol will produce Formaldehyde on oxidation. The structure is

  

Isopropyl alcohol will produce acetone on oxidation. The structure is

  

2-Methylpropanol will produce 2-methylpropanal on oxidation. The structure is

  

Cyclohexanol will produce cyclohexanone on oxidation and the structure is

  

Explanation of Solution

The OH group is attached to the alkane. The alcohol can have more than one OH group and upon oxidation, they form aldehydes and ketones. The primary alcohol is oxidized to an aldehyde and the secondary alcohol is oxidized to the ketone. In the given equations, methanol and 2-methylprpanol are the primary alcohols that produce the aldehydes, and cyclohexanol and isopropyl alcohol are the secondary alcohol that produces ketones o oxidation.

Conclusion

Alcohols have -OH group. The hydrogen in this -OH is lost and it undergoes oxidation resulting in the formation of a carbonyl compound with oxygen double-bonded to carbon. This carbonyl center makes the carbonyl group polar.