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Methanoic Acid and Ethanedioic Acid As Reducing Agents
Methanoic Acid and Ethanedioic Acid As Reducing Agents
Methanoic Acid and Ethanedioic Acid As Reducing Agents
Generally, carboxylic acid does not undergo oxidation and dehydration easily.
Methanoic acid and ethanedioic acid are exceptions.
Methanoic acid, HCOOH
O
H C OH
C OH
Methanoic acid:
Oxidation:
KMnO4/H+
HCOOH + [O]
CO2 + H2O
Dehydration:
C OH
CO + H2O
Ethanedioic acid:
(COOH)2 + [O]
Oxidation:
KMnO4/H+
2CO2 + H2O
Dehydration:
HO C
C OH
conc. H2SO4
CO2 + CO + H2O
Comparing methanoic acid, ethanoic acid (typical carboxylic acid) and ethanedioic acid:
Chemical
Test
PCl5, r.t.p.
KMnO4/ H+,
Reflux
Ethanoic acid,
CH3COOH
Ethanedioic acid,
(COOH)2
Purple to colourless.
HCOOH + [O]
KMnO4/H+
Tollens
KMnO4/H+
CO2 + H2O
Purple to colourless.
(COOH)2 + [O]
2CO2 + H2O
-
reagent
(only with
CHO)
Conc.
H2SO4,
heat
CO(g) is liberated.
Ethanoic acid,
CH3COOH
Ethanedioic acid,
(COOH)2
PCl5, r.t.p.
PCl3
SOCl2
KMnO4/ H+,
reflux
Tollens
reagent
Conc.
H2SO4,
heat
/
A gas that turns limewater
chalky is formed/
Chemical
Test
Uses:
To coagulate latex: Methanoic acid and ethanoic acid
In food industry:
o Vinegars: Ethanoic acid
o Food preservatives: Benzoic acid
Perfumery: Derivatives of carboxylic acid, ester.
Medical purpose:
o Antiseptic: Salicylic acid/ 2-hydroxybenzoic acid
o Aspirin/ Methyl salicylate: Manufactured from salicylic acid/ 2-hydroxybenzoic acid