Question

Upon ingestion, grain alcohol, C₂H₆O, is metabolized into acetaldehyde, C₂H₄O, which is a toxic substance causing headaches as well as joint pains typical of a 'hangover.' Is the grain alcohol oxidized or reduced as it transforms into acetaldehyde?

1) Oxidized
2) Reduced

Answer 1

Grain alcohol (C₂H₆O) is oxidized when it is metabolized into acetaldehyde (C₂H₄O) as it loses hydrogen atoms during the process.

Step-by-step explanation:

When grain alcohol (ethanol, C₂H₆O) is metabolized into acetaldehyde (C₂H₄O), it undergoes oxidation. This is because the process involves the loss of hydrogen atoms (as evidenced by the decrease in the number of hydrogen atoms from C₂H₆O to C₂H₄O) and the formation of a new bond to oxygen. According to the principles of redox chemistry, loss of hydrogen is indicative of oxidation of a molecule, while gain of hydrogen signifies reduction. Thus, grain alcohol is being oxidized to form acetaldehyde.