Question

Write the structure of propanol.

Answer 1

Hint: Propanol is primary alcohol with general structure RCOH where R is alkyl group and –OH is the functional group. It is also known as ethyl carbinol.

Complete step by step answer:
Propanol has chemical formula $$\text{C}{\text{H}}_{\text{3}}\text{C}{\text{H}}_{\text{2}}\text{C}{\text{H}}_{\text{2}}\text{OH}$$ or ${\text{C}}_{\text{3}}{\text{H}}_{\text{8}}\text{O}$ .
Propanol is also known as $\text{propan - 1 - ol}$ or n-propanol. Its structure is given below-

It has a simple straight chain structure. Its properties are as follows-
1.It is a clear colorless liquid.
2.It has a musty odor similar to ethanol or rubbing alcohol.
3.It has a ripe, fruity flavor.
4.It is highly flammable.
5.It is soluble in acetone and benzene and miscible with other organic solvents.
5.It is also soluble in water.
6.It is found in apple, cognac, apricot, banana, papaya, pineapple and cherry.

It is prepared by hydrogenation of propionaldehyde. The reaction is as follows-
$\Rightarrow C{H}_{3}C{H}_{2}CHO+H_2\to C{H}_{3}C{H}_{2}C{H}_{2}OH$
In this reaction the two hydrogen molecules get attached to the carbon of the aldehyde functional group and propanol is obtained. It is easily ignited by heat and its vapors form explosive mixtures with air. Its vapours are heavier than air so they can easily spread along the ground and collect in low confined areas.

Note:
The uses of propanol are-
1.As a solvent for natural gums, polishes, pharmaceuticals.
2.In cosmetics, dental lotions and lacquers.
3.As a specialty solvent in printing inks for printing on polyolefin and polyamide film.
4.In manufacture of n-propyl acetate and glycol ethers.
5.As a chemical intermediate in reactions.
6.As a flavoring agent and fragrance in foods.
7.As a co-solvent in pesticide formulation.