The major product obtained in the dehydration of ethanol in the presence of \( \text{H}_2\text{SO}_4 \) at 413 K is:
Show Hint
Dehydration of alcohols with sulfuric acid at high temperatures typically leads to the formation of alkenes (ethene in this case). The conditions specified (413 K) ensure that the reaction proceeds to form ethene.
Step 1: Understanding the Concept
The dehydration of alcohols with concentrated sulfuric acid is temperature-dependent. Different temperatures favor different reaction pathways (elimination vs. substitution). Step 2: Key Formula or Approach
1. At 443 K: Intramolecular dehydration occurs, forming an alkene (Ethene).
2. At 413 K: Intermolecular dehydration occurs, where two molecules of alcohol combine to form an ether. Step 3: Detailed Explanation
At the lower temperature of 413 K, the reaction follows an $S_N2$ mechanism:
\[ 2CH_3CH_2OH \xrightarrow{H_2SO_4, 413K} CH_3CH_2-O-CH_2CH_3 + H_2O \]
The product is diethyl ether, also known as ethoxyethane. If the temperature were raised to 443 K, the product would have been ethene. Step 4: Final Answer
The major product at 413 K is ethoxyethane.
