Introduction to Alcohols, Phenols, and Ethers

Questions and Answers

What is the general formula of alcohols containing one -OH group?

R-OH (correct)

$C_nH_{2n+1}OH$ (correct)

Ar-OH

R-O-R

Monohydric alcohols contain more than one -OH group.

False

What are alcohols with two -OH groups called?

Dihydric alcohols or diols.

Which type of alcohol has the hydroxyl group attached to a primary carbon atom?

<p>Primary alcohol</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following types of alcohols with their definitions:

<p>Primary alcohol = Hydroxyl group attached to a primary carbon Secondary alcohol = Hydroxyl group attached to a secondary carbon Tertiary alcohol = Hydroxyl group attached to a tertiary carbon Dihydric alcohol = Alcohol with two -OH groups</p> Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Overview of Alcohols, Phenols, and Ethers

Alcohols, phenols, and ethers are derivatives of water.
In alcohols, one hydrogen is replaced by an alkyl group (R-OH).
In phenols, one hydrogen is replaced by an aryl group (Ar-OH).
In ethers, both hydrogens are replaced by alkyl or aryl groups (Ar/R-O-R/Ar).

Alcohols

Characterized by a hydroxyl group (-OH) attached to an aliphatic carbon atom.
General formula: R-OH or CnH2n+1OHC_nH_{2n+1}OHCnH2n+1OH.
Common examples: Methyl alcohol (CH₃OH), Ethyl alcohol (C₂H₅OH).

Types of Alcohols

Monohydric alcohols contain one -OH group.
Polyhydric alcohols contain more than one -OH group; further divided into:
- Dihydric alcohols (glycols) with two -OH groups.
- Trihydric alcohols (triols) with three -OH groups.
Dihydric alcohols are often sweet-tasting (from Greek "glycys").

Classification of Monohydric Alcohols

Monohydric alcohols can be classified based on the carbon atom to which the hydroxyl group is attached:
- Primary (1°) alcohols: Hydroxyl group attached to a primary carbon.
- Secondary (2°) alcohols: Hydroxyl group attached to a secondary carbon.
- Tertiary (3°) alcohols: Hydroxyl group attached to a tertiary carbon.

Nomenclature of Alcohols

Alcohols can be named using common names or the IUPAC naming system.

Description

Explore the fascinating world of alcohols, phenols, and ethers. This quiz covers the basic definitions, structures, and classifications of these important organic compounds. Test your understanding of how these derivatives of water function in chemistry!