Question

a. Write the reaction of EtOH with (i) `KNH_(2)` (ii) aq. KOH (iii) Potassium ethynide.
b. Complete the following reaction:

c. Why is methanol more toxic than ethanol ? How is a methanol Poisoned patient treated ?
d. How does the ingestion of ethanol in low and high concentration affects the central nervous system ?

Answer 1

a.
i. `K^(o+)NH_(2)^(o+) + EtOH rarr NH_(3) + etO^(-) K^(o+)`
ii. `K^(o+)O^(-)H + EtOH` `H_(2)O + EtO^(-)K^(o+)`
iii. `HC-=N^(-)K^(o+) + EtOH rarr HC-=CH + EtO^(-)K^(o+)`
b.
c. MeOH `overset ([O]) rarr` `CH_(2)=O` `overset([O]) rarr` HCOOH
EtOH `overset ([O]) rarr` MeCH=O `overset ([O]) rarr` MeCOOH
The merabolism (biological oxidation) of both alcohols in the body produces corresponding aldehyde (methanal and ethanal) followed by acid (methanoic and ethanoic acid). The product from methanol is much more toxic than the product from ethanol. Methanal and methanoic acid may cause bindness and deth. A methanol posisoned patient is treated by giving intravenous infusion of diluted ethanol. The enzyme responsible for oxidation of aldehyde `(HCHO)` to acid is swamped, allowing kidneys to excreate methanol.
d. Ingestion of ethanol on the CNS (central nervous system). In small or moderate amount, it affects judgement and lowers inhibitions. Higher amount causes nausea and loss of consciopusness and interferes with spontaneous respairation and can be fatal.