Question

An organic compound 'X' has molecular formula C₂H₄O₂ and is acidic in nature. When 'X' is heated with compound 'Y', a compound is 'Z' with formula C₄H₈O₂ is obtained which gives vapours with fruity smell. But when sodium salt of 'X' is heated with conc. H₂SO₄ , a gas 'W' is obtained which is found in marshy area.
i) Identify X,Y,Z & W.
ii) Write down the chemical equation involved.

Answer 1

Dear student,
1. It is given that the compound is in acidic in as there are just two carbons so only possible acid is ethanoic acid
(CH₃COOH). So, X - ethanoic acid.
C₄H₈O₂ is an ester as it is mentioned that it has fruity smell. So, Z- ethyl ethanoate (CH₃COOC₂H₅)
As we know that esters are formed alcohol reacts with organic acid.We can observe that ester has 4 carbon atoms while our acid has just 2 that means the two carbon atoms comes from alcohol. Thus, Y- ethanol (C₂H₅OH)
When sodium salt of ethanoic acid is heated with conc.H₂SO₄ methane gas is formed.
So, We - methai (CH₄).
2. CH₃COOH + C₂H₅OH + heat→ CH₃COOC₂H₅ + H₂O
CH₃COONa + H₂SO₄ → CH₄ + CO₂ + NaHSO₄
Regards