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Ch.21 - Organic Chemistry
Chapter 21, Problem 73d

List the products of each alcohol reaction. d.
Chemical structure of an alcohol reacting with sodium dichromate and sulfuric acid.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Alcohol Oxidation

Alcohols can undergo oxidation reactions, where the hydroxyl (-OH) group is converted into a carbonyl group (C=O). This process typically involves oxidizing agents such as sodium dichromate (Na2Cr2O7) in acidic conditions. Depending on the type of alcohol (primary, secondary, or tertiary), the products can vary, leading to aldehydes, ketones, or carboxylic acids.
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Oxidizing Agents

Oxidizing agents are substances that facilitate the oxidation of other compounds by accepting electrons. In this reaction, sodium dichromate acts as a strong oxidizing agent, converting alcohols into their corresponding carbonyl compounds. The effectiveness of the oxidizing agent is crucial in determining the extent of oxidation and the final products formed.
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Reaction Conditions

The conditions under which a reaction occurs can significantly influence the outcome. In this case, the presence of sulfuric acid (H2SO4) provides an acidic environment that enhances the oxidation process. The temperature, concentration of reagents, and reaction time are also important factors that can affect the yield and type of products formed during the oxidation of alcohols.
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