Question

Identify the product formed when Ethyl alcohol is heated with concentrated \( H_2SO_4 \) at \(443\,K\).

• A. Ethane
• B. Ethene
• C. Diethyl ether
• D. Acetaldehyde

Hint:

At \(413\,K\), ethanol forms diethyl ether, while at \(443\,K\) it forms ethene due to dehydration.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The problem asks for the product of a temperature-sensitive dehydration reaction of an alcohol.
The topic is Alcohols, Phenols, and Ethers.
Step 2: Key Formula or Approach:
Concentrated \( H_2SO_4 \) acts as a dehydrating agent. The temperature determines whether elimination or substitution occurs.
Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
Ethyl alcohol is \( CH_3CH_2OH \).
At \( 443\,K \), intramolecular dehydration occurs (elimination of water from one molecule).
Reaction:
\[ CH_3-CH_2-OH \xrightarrow[443K]{conc. H_2SO_4} CH_2=CH_2 + H_2O \]
This results in the formation of an alkene.
Step 4: Final Answer:
The product is Ethene.