Question 1: Define an alcohol in terms of its chemical structure.

Answer: An alcohol is an organic compound containing one or more hydroxyl (-OH) groups attached to a carbon atom.

Question 2: Describe the general reaction mechanism by which alcohols are formed from alkenes.

Answer: Alcohols are formed from alkenes through a hydration reaction, where water (H2O) adds across the double bond in the presence of an acid catalyst, resulting in an alcohol.

Question 3: Name one common industrial method used to produce ethanol, an alcohol.

Answer: The fermentation of sugars by yeast is a common method to produce ethanol.

Question 1: Calculate the volume of ethanol (density = 0.789 g/mL) produced when 50 grams of ethene (C2H4) undergo hydration, assuming 100% efficiency. Molar mass of ethanol = 46.07 g/mol. (Use the reaction: C2H4 + H2O → C2H5OH)

Answer: Approximately 50.8 mL of ethanol.

Question 1: List three safety precautions that should be followed when handling alcohols in the laboratory.

Answer: Wearing gloves and goggles, working in a well-ventilated area, and avoiding open flames due to flammability.

Question 2: Describe the steps involved in preparing a simple solution of ethanol in the laboratory.

Answer: First, obtain a measured volume of ethanol using a pipette or graduated cylinder. Then, add this ethanol to a container and dilute with distilled water to the desired concentration, mixing thoroughly.

Question 1: A sample of alcohol has a boiling point of 78°C. What can you infer about its purity and composition?

Answer: A boiling point close to 78°C suggests it is likely pure ethanol, as pure ethanol boils at 78.37°C; impurities may slightly alter this temperature.

Question 1: Explain why alcohols are considered versatile compounds in both industry and daily life. Include at least two examples.

Answer: Alcohols are versatile due to their ability to act as solvents, fuels, and intermediates in chemical synthesis. For example, ethanol is used as a beverage, sanitizer, and fuel additive, while methanol is used in manufacturing formaldehyde and as an antifreeze.

Question 1: Describe how alcohols are used in the production of hand sanitizers and why their chemical properties make them effective.

Answer: Alcohols like ethanol and isopropanol are used in hand sanitizers because their ability to denature proteins and dissolve lipids destroys many types of bacteria and viruses.