A compound X is formed by the reaction of a carboxylic acid C_2H_4O_2 and an alcohol in presence

Question

(i) A compound X is formed by the reaction of a carboxylic acid C₂H₄O₂ and an alcohol in presence of a few drops of H₂SO₄. The alcohol on oxidation with alkaline KMnO4 followed by acidification gives the same carboxylic acid as used in this reaction. Give the names and structures of
(a) carboxylic acid, (b) alcohol and (c) the compound X. Also write the reaction.
(ii) Intake of small quantity of methanol can be lethal. Comment.

Answer 1

(ii) Methanol is oxidised to methanal in the liver. Methanal reacts rapidly with the components of cells. It causes the protoplasm to coagulate. It also affects the optic nerve, causes blindness.