# Propan-1-ol can be oxidised to form propanoic acid. Describe what happens during this oxidation reaction and explain why propanoic acid is classified as an organic acid.

> Cambridge International IGCSE Chemistry (0620) — 11.6 Alcohols · Describe and Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Propan-1-ol is oxidised by/reacts with an oxidising agent (e.g. acidified potassium manganate(VII) or potassium dichromate(VI))
2. The –OH group is converted / the alcohol functional group changes to a –COOH (carboxyl/carboxylic acid) group
3. Propanoic acid contains a –COOH (carboxylic acid) functional group
4. Propanoic acid dissolves in / reacts with water to release / produce hydrogen ions (H⁺) / acts as a proton donor, making the solution acidic

## Key terms

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

## Related

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/propan-1-ol-can-be-oxidised-to-form-b2f2b427) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.