Properties Of Ethanol

Theory:

Ethanol (C₂H₅OH) is a volatile, flammable, and colorless liquid with a slightly sweet smell. It is commonly known as alcohol and is used in alcoholic beverages, thermometers, antiseptics, and as a solvent.

Physical properties of ethanol:

1. Ethanol is a colorless liquid with a pleasant odor and burning taste.

2. It is miscible with water in all proportions.

3. It is a good solvent for many organic compounds.

4. It has a boiling point of 78.3°C.

Chemical properties of ethanol:

1. Combustion: Ethanol burns in air to produce carbon dioxide and water.
   C₂H₅OH + 3O₂ → 2CO₂ + 3H₂O

2. Reaction with Sodium: Ethanol reacts with active metals like sodium to form sodium ethoxide and hydrogen gas.
   2C₂H₅OH + 2Na → 2C₂H₅ONa + H₂

3. Esterification: Ethanol reacts with acetic acid in the presence of a few drops of concentrated sulfuric acid to form esters.
   C₂H₅OH + CH₃COOH → CH₃COOC₂H₅ + H₂O

4. Dehydration: When heated with excess concentrated sulfuric acid, ethanol gets dehydrated to form ethene.
   C₂H₅OH → C₂H₄ + H₂O

Properties of Ethanol Experiment – Class 12 Science

The Properties of Ethanol experiment is a key part of the Class 12 science curriculum in organic chemistry. Ethanol (C₂H₅OH), commonly known as alcohol, is an important organic compound with various applications and reactions that make it essential for scientific and industrial purposes.

In this experiment, students observe both the physical and chemical properties of ethanol. These observations help learners understand how ethanol behaves under different conditions and how it interacts with other substances.

Physical Properties of Ethanol:

• Colorless liquid with a characteristic pleasant smell and burning taste.

• Completely miscible with water in all proportions.

• Acts as an excellent solvent for organic compounds.

• Boiling point is approximately 78.3°C.

Chemical Properties of Ethanol:

1. Combustion: Ethanol burns in the presence of oxygen to form carbon dioxide and water.
   Reaction: C₂H₅OH + 3O₂ → 2CO₂ + 3H₂O

2. Reaction with Sodium: Ethanol reacts with sodium metal, producing hydrogen gas and sodium ethoxide.
   Reaction: 2C₂H₅OH + 2Na → 2C₂H₅ONa + H₂

3. Esterification: When mixed with acetic acid and a catalyst like sulfuric acid, ethanol forms esters, which are pleasant-smelling compounds.
   Reaction: C₂H₅OH + CH₃COOH → CH₃COOC₂H₅ + H₂O

4. Dehydration: Heating ethanol with concentrated sulfuric acid produces ethene gas.
   Reaction: C₂H₅OH → C₂H₄ + H₂O

These reactions are not only fascinating but also form the basis for understanding alcohol’s behavior in industrial and biological systems.

Discover This Experiment in the Dencity Virtual Science Lab

Using the Dencity app, students can explore the properties of ethanol experiment in a safe, virtual setting. The Dencity virtual lab allows users to observe ethanol’s reactions without the risks associated with handling flammable and reactive substances.

Students from Class 12 science can experiment with combustion, sodium reactions, ester formation, and dehydration using intuitive tools and real-time feedback. This interactive approach to learning boosts confidence, encourages scientific curiosity, and ensures better conceptual understanding.

Dencity for Teachers

Dencity enhances interactive teaching by offering teachers control over live experiments, the ability to assign practice sessions as homework, and receive detailed analytics on student progress. The platform supports interactive learning, simplifying complex concepts with visual aids and simulations.

Fully Compatible with Interactive Touch Panels

The Dencity app works seamlessly on interactive touch panels, allowing teachers and students to manipulate variables, observe reactions, and engage deeply with the content using touch gestures—ideal for smart classrooms.

Contact us today to schedule a customized demo or pricing plan for your school or institution.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is ethanol?
   Ethanol is a volatile, colorless, flammable liquid used in beverages, industry, and labs.

2. Why is ethanol miscible with water?
   Due to its polar nature and ability to form hydrogen bonds.

3. What happens when ethanol burns?
   It produces carbon dioxide and water.

4. What is sodium ethoxide?
   A compound formed when ethanol reacts with sodium metal.

5. What is esterification?
   A chemical reaction between an alcohol and an acid to form an ester and water.

6. How is ethene formed from ethanol?
   By dehydration using concentrated sulfuric acid as a catalyst.

7. Is ethanol flammable?
   Yes, it catches fire easily and must be handled with care.

8. Can I perform this experiment at home?
   Not safely. That’s why virtual science labs like Dencity are a great alternative.

9. Which class is this experiment for?
   This experiment is part of the Class 12 science curriculum.

10. Is Dencity available for all platforms?
    Yes, the Dencity app works on mobile, tablet, and desktop devices.