Question

Ethanol on heating with conc. H\(_2\)SO\(_4\) at 413 K gives:

• A. \( C_2H_5OSO_3H \)
• B. \( C_2H_5 - O - CH_3 \)
• C. \( C_2H_5 - O - C_2H_5 \)
• D. \( CH_2 = CH_2 \)

Hint:

- At 413 K, ethanol forms ether due to intermolecular dehydration. - At 443 K, ethanol forms alkene via intramolecular dehydration.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Intermolecular dehydration of ethanol with conc. sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) at 413 K produces diethyl ether (C₂H₅-O-C₂H₅): \[ 2C_2H_5OH \xrightarrow{\text{H}_2\text{SO}_4, 413 K} C_2H_5-O-C_2H_5 + H_2O \] - Ether formation is favored at the lower temperature of 413 K. - At higher temperatures (443 K), ethanol undergoes elimination to form ethene (CH₂=CH₂).