Propan-1-ol is an alcohol that can be used as a fuel. Describe the complete combustion of propan-1-ol and explain why propan-1-ol is classified as a member of the alcohol homologous series.

Edexcel GCSE Chemistry (1CH0) — 10.3 Alcohols and carboxylic acids (Chem only) · Describe and Explain · 4 marks · View as Markdown

Written & reviewed by James Millett — Biology (Imperial College London), PGCE Science (University of Cambridge).

Propan-1-ol is a colourless liquid alcohol with the molecular formula C₃H₇OH. It is used as a solvent and as a fuel additive.

Model answer (4 marks)

Complete combustion of propan-1‑ol:
C3H7OH + 5O2 → 3CO2 + 4H2O

Propan‑1‑ol is an alcohol because it contains a hydroxyl (–OH) functional group attached to a saturated carbon atom. All members of the alcohol homologous series have the same –OH group and the general formula CnH2n+1OH, differing only by the number of CH2 units.

Examiner tips

  • Write the balanced equation with correct coefficients; include O2, CO2 and H2O.
  • Mention the –OH group and the general formula CnH2n+1OH to show the homologous series.

Mark scheme (4 marks)

  1. Complete combustion of propan-1-ol produces carbon dioxide
  2. Complete combustion of propan-1-ol produces water
  3. Propan-1-ol contains an –OH (hydroxyl) functional group
  4. All members of the alcohol homologous series share the same general formula / differ by CH₂ / have the same functional group

Key terms in this question

complete combustion · homologous series

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