Question

An organic compound A on heating with concentrated H₂SO₄ forms a compound B which on addition of one mole of hydrogen in presence of Ni forms a compound C. One mole of compound C on combustion forms two moles of CO₂ and 3 moles of H₂O. Identify the compounds A, B and C and write the chemical equations of the reactions involved.

Answer 1

Since compound C gives 2 moles of CO₂ and 3 moles of H₂O, it shows that it has the molecular formula C₂H₆ (Ethane). C is obtained by the addition of one mole of hydrogen to compound B so the molecular formula of B should be C₂H₄(Ethene). Compound B is obtained by heating compound A with concentrated H₂SO₄ which shows it to be an alcohol. So compound A could be C₂H₅OH (Ethanol).