Question

Classify the following compound as an acid, base, or both. CH₃CH₂OH

Answer 1

The compound CH₃CH₂OH is classified as a weak base.

Step-by-step explanation:

In order to classify CH₃CH₂OH, or ethanol, as an acid, base, or both, we need to examine its chemical properties. Ethanol is a weak base due to the presence of the hydroxyl group (-OH). The hydroxyl group can accept a proton (H⁺) in a chemical reaction, making it capable of behaving as a base. However, ethanol is not a strong base like hydroxides of alkali metals. The weak basicity of ethanol is attributed to the fact that the oxygen atom in the hydroxyl group has a lone pair of electrons, making it capable of accepting a proton in a reaction.

In a more detailed explanation, the reaction involving ethanol as a weak base can be represented as follows:

`\[ CH₃CH₂OH + H⁺ \rightarrow CH₃CH₂OH₂^+ \]`

Here, ethanol accepts a proton (H⁺) to form the ethylammonium ion (CH₃CH₂OH₂⁺). The weak basicity of ethanol is evident in the reversible nature of this reaction, where the ethylammonium ion can release the proton and reform ethanol.

In summary, CH₃CH₂OH is classified as a weak base due to the presence of the hydroxyl group, which can accept protons in chemical reactions. The chemical equation illustrates the basic nature of ethanol, emphasizing its ability to act as a weak base in suitable conditions.