[figure] Consider the above reaction sequence and identify the major product P.
- Methanoic acid
- Methoxymethane
- Methane
- Methanal
Answer
(3) Methane
Solution
CH3CH2OH Jones reagent CH3COOH ∵ 1° alcohol is oxidised to the acid
KMnO4: no further change ∵ the acid is already fully oxidised
CH3COOH NaOH CH3COONa
CH3COONa [ ]NaOH, CaO CH4 + Na2CO3 ∵ soda-lime removes –COONa as Na2CO3
∴ P = methane
Answer: (3)