Chapter 23, Problem 70A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: To propose a scheme for the production of Ethylene glycol.

Concept Introduction: Ethylene glycol is a diol that is used for the production of polyester fibers and is also used as an antifreeze in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industry. It is prepared by the reaction of ethylene with oxygen and further making it react with carbon dioxide.

Answer to Problem 70A

  

  

  

Explanation of Solution

In the first step, the ethylene is made to react with the oxygen resulting in the formation of ethylene oxide. This reaction is an exothermic reaction that takes place in the gaseous phase with the help of some catalysts like silver that is supported on alumina.

  

The ethylene oxide produced is made to react with the carbon dioxide resulting in the formation of ethylene carbonate and this ethylene carbonate produced is hydrolyzed to form the mono-ethylene glycol and also carbon dioxide.

  

  

Conclusion

In the above process, ethylene glycol which is also called Mono-ethylene glycol is produced from ethylene oxide. This process is the conversion of ethylene oxide to ethylene glycol in the presence of catalysts.