A student was given the task of identifying a liquid organic compound that contains only carbon, hydrogen and oxygen - VCE - SSCE Chemistry - Question 17 - 2008 - Paper 1
Question 17
A student was given the task of identifying a liquid organic compound that contains only carbon, hydrogen and oxygen. The following tests were carried out:
Test 1 ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:A student was given the task of identifying a liquid organic compound that contains only carbon, hydrogen and oxygen - VCE - SSCE Chemistry - Question 17 - 2008 - Paper 1
Step 1
Test 1: Some brown Br₂(aq) was added to a sample of the compound.
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Answer
The reaction with bromine indicates the presence of alkenes or alkynes, since a colourless product formed. The absence of colour suggests an unsaturated compound.
Step 2
Test 2: Some Na₂CO₃(s) was added to a sample of the compound.
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Answer
The reaction with sodium carbonate resulting in the evolution of a colourless gas suggests an acid is present, likely a carboxylic acid. This implies a hydroxyl group (-OH) may also be present.
Step 3
Based on the test results, the compound could be:
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Answer
Considering the test results, the correct structure indicated in option B fits as it suggests an unsaturated compound with a carboxylic acid functional group.
