The intermediates for the oxidation of isopropanol to acetone are shown. Calculate oxidation numbers for the indicated atoms, then use them to determine in which step oxidation occurs. (e)
Verified step by step guidance
1
Identify the structure of isopropanol (C3H8O) and acetone (C3H6O). Note that isopropanol is a secondary alcohol, and acetone is a ketone.
Determine the oxidation number of the carbon atom in isopropanol that is bonded to the hydroxyl group (OH). In organic compounds, carbon typically has an oxidation number of -4, but this can vary based on its bonding.
Calculate the oxidation number of the same carbon atom in acetone. Remember that in a ketone, the carbonyl carbon is bonded to an oxygen atom, which is more electronegative.
Compare the oxidation numbers of the carbon atom in isopropanol and acetone. An increase in the oxidation number indicates oxidation.
Identify the step in the reaction mechanism where the oxidation number of the carbon atom increases, signifying the oxidation step in the conversion of isopropanol to acetone.
Verified video answer for a similar problem:
This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above
Video duration:
3m
Play a video:
0 Comments
Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Oxidation Numbers
Oxidation numbers are a way of keeping track of electrons in atoms as they undergo chemical reactions. They are assigned to atoms based on a set of rules, such as the oxidation number of a free element being zero and the sum of oxidation numbers in a neutral compound being zero. Calculating oxidation numbers helps identify which atoms are oxidized or reduced in a reaction.
Oxidation is the process where an atom loses electrons, resulting in an increase in its oxidation number, while reduction is the gain of electrons, leading to a decrease in oxidation number. In organic chemistry, oxidation often involves the addition of oxygen or the removal of hydrogen. Identifying oxidation and reduction steps is crucial for understanding reaction mechanisms.
Reaction intermediates are transient species that appear in the steps between reactants and products in a chemical reaction. They are often unstable and cannot be isolated under normal conditions. Understanding intermediates is essential for mapping out the reaction pathway and determining where oxidation or reduction occurs in multi-step processes.