To obtain ethanal rather than ethanoic acid when oxidising ethanol with acidified dichromate, which condition is used?
Correct answer C. Distil off the aldehyde as soon as it forms
Explanation
Ethanal boils at about 21 °C, well below ethanol. Distilling it out as it forms removes it from the oxidant before it can be oxidised further to ethanoic acid. Reflux with excess oxidant gives the acid.
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