Final answer:
In the context of the question, the oxidation of primary alcohols like ethanol and methanol with hot KMnO4 under basic conditions leads to the formation of carboxylic acids and carbon dioxide respectively. Secondary alcohols are oxidized to ketones.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question pertains to the oxidation reactions of organic compounds with hot KMnO4 under elevated temperatures and basic conditions, followed by an acid workup. When primary alcohols like ethanol are oxidized, they first form aldehydes such as ethanal (acetaldehyde), and further oxidation under these conditions yields carboxylic acids like ethanoic acid (acetic acid). Methanol, a primary alcohol, when oxidized under these conditions, will form methanal (formaldehyde) initially, but due to the strong oxidative conditions, it will likely proceed to form carbon dioxide (CO2) as the final product. Secondary alcohols, when oxidized, produce ketones. For example, oxidation of isopropyl alcohol results in acetone (the simplest ketone). Aldehydes are more easily oxidized compared to alcohols, and agents like Tollens' reagent can distinguish between aldehydes and ketones.