Chapter 28: Problem 76
A fruity smell is produced by the reaction of \(\mathrm{C}_{2} \mathrm{H}_{5} \mathrm{OH}\) with (a) \(\mathrm{PCl}_{5}\) (b) \(\mathrm{CH}_{3} \mathrm{COOH}\) (c) \(\mathrm{CH}_{3} \mathrm{COCH}_{3}\) (d) none of these
Short Answer
Expert verified
The fruity smell is produced by the reaction of C_{2}H_{5}OH with CH_{3}COOH.
Step by step solution
01
Analyzing the Options
To identify which reaction might produce a fruity smell, we need to consider each option. The characteristic fruity smell is typically due to the formation of esters.
02
Reacting C_{2}H_{5}OH with PCl_{5}
When ethanol (C_{2}H_{5}OH) reacts with phosphorus pentachloride (PCl_{5}), it typically leads to the formation of chloroethane (C_{2}H_{5}Cl) and hydrochloric acid, not an ester, thus not producing a fruity smell.
03
Reacting C_{2}H_{5}OH with CH_{3}COOH
When ethanol reacts with acetic acid (CH_{3}COOH), an esterification reaction occurs, producing ethyl acetate (CH_{3}COOCH_{2}CH_{3}), which is known for its fruity smell. Therefore, this option results in the desired effect.
04
Reacting C_{2}H_{5}OH with CH_{3}COCH_{3}
The reaction of ethanol with acetone (CH_{3}COCH_{3}) typically does not result in the formation of an ester, and thus does not produce a fruity smell. This option is unlikely to produce the desired olfactory effect.
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Fruity smell
Have you ever noticed how some substances have a delightful fruity aroma? This is often due to a group of compounds called esters. Esters are organic compounds formed by the reaction between an alcohol and a carboxylic acid. When these esters vaporize, they release molecules that tickle our olfactory senses, producing pleasant smells reminiscent of fruits.
- Esters are responsible for the scents of many fruits, adding flavors and fragrances that are often used in perfumes and food products.
- The "fruity" smell in many synthetic fragrances can also be attributed to esters created in chemical laboratories.
Ethanol
Ethanol, a simple alcohol with the formula \(\text{C}_{2}\text{H}_{5}\text{OH}\), is a versatile organic compound frequently used in chemistry and industry. It appears in many beverages as alcohol, and it's also a significant reagent in various chemical reactions, including esterification.
Ethanol's structure consists of a two-carbon chain, allowing it to effectively interact with other compounds to form new substances.
Ethanol's structure consists of a two-carbon chain, allowing it to effectively interact with other compounds to form new substances.
- It's used in making medications, sanitizers, and as a biofuel.
- In esterification, ethanol reacts with carboxylic acids to produce esters, often emitting a pleasant fruity smell.
Acetic acid
Acetic acid, with the chemical formula \( \text{CH}_{3}\text{COOH} \), is a widely known carboxylic acid. It’s the component that gives vinegar its distinct sour smell and taste. Acetic acid is not only important in cooking but also as a crucial reactant in chemical processes like esterification.
- In esterification, acetic acid reacts with alcohols, such as ethanol, to form esters, which often possess fruity scents.
- It's industrially relevant for producing polymers, as well as in the synthesis of various chemicals.
Ethyl acetate
Ethyl acetate, a colorless liquid with a sweet smell resembling certain fruits, is an ester formed by the reaction of acetic acid and ethanol. Its chemical formula is \( \text{CH}_{3}\text{COOCH}_{2}\text{CH}_{3} \).
This compound is not only known for its distinctive fruity aroma but also for its extensive utility as a solvent.
This compound is not only known for its distinctive fruity aroma but also for its extensive utility as a solvent.
- Due to its pleasant smell, it's often used in nail polish removers and glues.
- Ethyl acetate is also utilized in laboratories and industries for various chemical extractions and as a reaction solvent.