Chapter 20, Problem 44A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The reason why methanol is called as wood alcohol is to be explained. Its synthesis and uses are to be discussed.

Concept introduction:

The formula of methanol is $C{H}_{3}OH$ . It belongs to class of alcohol. It is the first member of alcohol family. It is sometimes known as wood alcohol.

Answer to Problem 44A

It is sometimes called wood alcohol because initially it was formed by burning wood in absence of air.

Modern synthesis:

  $CO+2H_2\stackrel{}{{\displaystyle \underset{ZnO/C{r}_2{O}_3}{\overset{4000°C}{\to }}}}C{H}_{3}OH$

Uses:

• In antifreeze
• As a solvent
• In rocket fuels

Explanation of Solution

Methanol is called as wood alcohol because it was obtained from wood. But now it is formed by heating water gas at high temperature in presence of catalyst $ZnO/C{r}_2{O}_3$ as:

  $CO+2H_2\stackrel{}{{\displaystyle \underset{ZnO/C{r}_2{O}_3}{\overset{4000°C}{\to }}}}C{H}_{3}OH$

Methanol is used as a fuel in automobiles. It is used as a solvent in many reactions. But it is toxic for humans.

Conclusion

Thus, methanol is useful in cars but can’t be used for drinking purpose as it is toxic for humans.