Question

Consider the following reaction:

Identify A and B from the given options:

• A. A — Methanol, B — Potassium formate
• B. A — Ethanol, B — Potassium formate
• C. A — Methanal, B — Ethanol
• D. A — Methanol, B — Potassium acetate

Hint:

In decarboxylation reactions, heating in the presence of a strong base often results in the formation of alcohols and formates.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

A typical decarboxylation reaction occurs when formic acid (\( \text{HCOOH} \)) is heated with concentrated KOH. This process yields methanol (CH$_3$OH) and potassium formate (HCOOK). The mechanism involves the following steps:

1. Formic acid is reacted with concentrated KOH.
2. The hydroxide ion attacks the carbonyl carbon of formic acid, producing potassium formate and releasing carbon dioxide.
3. Methanol is the remaining product after decarboxylation.
In summary, the decarboxylation of formic acid produces methanol and potassium formate.