Industrial preparation of alcohols involves various methods to produce these important organic compounds on a large scale. One of the primary methods is fermentation, where sugars from sources like molasses or grains are converted into ethanol by yeast under anaerobic conditions. Another significant method is the hydration of alkenes, where alkenes react with water in the presence of an acid catalyst to yield alcohols, such as the production of ethanol from ethylene. Additionally, alcohols can be synthesized through the reduction of carbonyl compounds, such as aldehydes and ketones, using reducing agents like lithium aluminum hydride or sodium borohydride. Methanol, often referred to as wood spirit, is produced from carbon monoxide and hydrogen gas under high pressure and temperature using catalysts. These industrial processes ensure a steady supply of alcohols for use in beverages, solvents, fuels, and as intermediates in chemical synthesis.
What is the primary method for producing ethanol on an industrial scale?
The primary method for producing ethanol industrially is fermentation, where sugars are converted into ethanol by yeast.
What raw materials are commonly used for fermentation to produce ethanol?
Common raw materials for fermentation include molasses, starch grains, and fruit juices.
What is the maximum concentration of ethanol that can be obtained through fermentation?
The maximum concentration of ethanol obtained through fermentation is typically around 12-14%, as higher concentrations can inhibit yeast activity.
How is ethanol concentrated beyond the fermentation limit?
Ethanol can be concentrated beyond the fermentation limit by distillation, producing a higher concentration known as rectified spirit.
What is the process used to produce methanol industrially?
Methanol is produced industrially by reacting carbon monoxide and hydrogen gas under high pressure and temperature, using catalysts.
What is the primary raw material used in the fermentation process to produce ethanol?
a) Crude oil
b) Sugar
c) Natural gas
d) Coal
Answer: b) Sugar
Which microorganism is commonly used in the fermentation process to produce ethanol?
a) Bacteria
b) Yeast
c) Fungi
d) Algae
Answer: b) Yeast
What is the maximum ethanol concentration achievable through fermentation?
a) 5%
b) 10%
c) 12-14%
d) 20%
Answer: c) 12-14%
What process is used to concentrate ethanol beyond the fermentation limit?
a) Filtration
b) Distillation
c) Crystallization
d) Sublimation
Answer: b) Distillation
Which of the following is a common method for producing methanol industrially?
a) Fermentation of fruits
b) Hydration of ethylene
c) Synthesis from carbon monoxide and hydrogen
d) Oxidation of ethanol
Answer: c) Synthesis from carbon monoxide and hydrogen