Lab Report: Oxidation of Ethanol
Introduction
The oxidation of ethanol is a fundamental reaction in organic chemistry,
particularly in the study of alcohols and carboxylic acids. Ethanol, a primary
alcohol, can be oxidised to form ethanoic acid (acetic acid) using a suitable
oxidising agent. In this experiment, acidified sodium dichromate (VI) acts as the
oxidising agent. The reaction involves two key laboratory techniques: heating
under reflux and distillation. Reflux ensures complete oxidation, while distillation
allows for the separation and collection of the final product.
Aim
To investigate the oxidation of ethanol using acidified sodium dichromate and to
practise the techniques of reflux and distillation.
Procedure:
1. Add 20 cm³ of acidified sodium dichromate solution to a 50 ml round
bottom flask and cool it in an ice-water bath.
2. Set up the apparatus for reflux while keeping the flask in the ice-water
bath.
3. Add a few anti-bumping granules to the flask.
4. Measure 1 cm³ of ethanol.
5. Add the ethanol slowly, drop by drop, through the reflux condenser using a
pipette. Wait for the reaction to subside before each addition.
6. After all ethanol is added, remove the ice bath and allow the mixture to
warm to room temperature (approx. 5 minutes).
7. Heat the mixture in a heating mantle for 20 minutes, then allow the
apparatus to cool.
8. Set up the apparatus for distillation. Distil the product and collect 3–4 cm³
of clear, colourless liquid.
9. Perform the following tests on separate portions of the distillate:
o Measure pH using universal indicator paper.
o Add acidified potassium dichromate solution and warm in a water
bath.
o Add calcium carbonate powder and observe.
o Add a piece of magnesium ribbon and observe.
o Add Fehling’s solution and warm gently.
Results:
Test Observation
pH test pH ≈ 3-4 (acidic)
Acidified potassium dichromate No observable change
Calcium carbonate Effervescence observed
Magnesium Effervescence observed
Fehling’s solution No observable change
Evaluation
The experiment successfully demonstrated the oxidation of ethanol to ethanoic
acid. The reflux and distillation techniques were appropriate, and the results
supported the formation of a carboxylic acid. However, improvements could be
made:
Measurement accuracy: Small volumes (e.g. 1 cm³ ethanol) may introduce
error; using more precise equipment could improve reliability.
Product confirmation: Further analysis (e.g. IR spectroscopy) could confirm
product identity and purity.
Qualitative observations: Reactions like effervescence are subjective; gas
collection would offer quantitative data.
Despite these minor issues, the procedure was effective, and the results aligned
with expected outcomes.
Picture of apparatus
Analysis / Questions:
1. Equation for oxidation of ethanol:
CH3CH2OH + 2[O] CH3COOH + H2O
2. Reaction with magnesium:
2CH3COOH + Mg Mg(CH3COO)2 + H2
3. Reaction with calcium carbonate:
2CH3COOH + CaCO3 Ca(CH3COO)2 + H2O + CO2
4. Explanation of test results:
o Acidified potassium dichromate: No change indicates no residual
ethanol; all ethanol has been fully oxidised to ethanoic acid.
o Fehling’s solution: No red precipitate formed because there is no
aldehyde present; ethanol has been oxidised beyond the aldehyde
stage to a carboxylic acid.
Conclusion
The experiment successfully demonstrated the oxidation of ethanol to
ethanoic acid using acidified sodium dichromate. The use of reflux allowed
complete oxidation, and distillation effectively isolated the product. The
acidic pH, along with reactions with magnesium and calcium carbonate,
confirmed the presence of a carboxylic acid. Lack of change with both
potassium dichromate and Fehling’s solution supported the conclusion
that ethanol was fully oxidised, with no intermediate aldehyde remaining.
References:
Pearson Edexcel Core Practical 5 Student sheet Investigate the oxidation
of ethanol
