# Ethanol can be oxidised to form ethanoic acid. Describe what happens during the oxidation of ethanol, name the type of product formed, and explain why this process is an example of oxidation.

> Edexcel A-Level Chemistry (9CH0) — 6.5 Alcohols and oxidation · Describe · 5 marks

> Ethanol (C₂H₅OH) is a common alcohol. When left exposed to air in the presence of bacteria, or when treated with an oxidising agent, ethanol undergoes a chemical change to produce a compound with the molecular formula CH₃COOH.

## Mark scheme (5 marks)

1. Ethanol gains oxygen (during the reaction)
2. The product formed is ethanoic acid / a carboxylic acid
3. Oxidation is defined as a reaction involving the gain of oxygen
4. Ethanol has gained oxygen in this reaction, so it fits the definition of oxidation
5. An oxidising agent / oxygen (from air or oxidising agent) is required to carry out this oxidation

## Key terms

- [oxidation](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/oxidation)
- [ethanol](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/ethanol)
- [ethanoic acid](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/ethanoic-acid)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Edexcel A-Level Chemistry (9CH0)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Describe" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/ethanol-can-be-oxidised-to-form-99501334) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.