Question detail
What happens when ethanol reacts with sodium?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
Reactions of alkenes and alcohols (chemistry only)
Question
- A. Hydrogen gas is released.
- B. Ethanol burns.
- C. Sodium dissolves.
- D. Ethanol forms a salt.
Answer
The correct option is Hydrogen gas is released..
Explanation
The correct option is Hydrogen gas is released.. Hydrogen gas is released. is correct because it directly supports the approved learning objective to investigate reactions of alcohols. (AT 2, 5, 6). This belongs to Alcohols within Reactions of alkenes and alcohols (chemistry only), so the answer must use the correct organic chemistry context. The other options are incorrect when they confuse the organic family, formula type, reaction condition, product, or property being tested. Keep molecular formula, structural formula, displayed formula, and general formula distinct. Do not confuse alkanes with alkenes, saturated with unsaturated, cracking with combustion, polymers with monomers, or hydrocarbons with oxygen-containing alcohols and carboxylic acids. When formulae are used, preserve the stored notation exactly and explain the GCSE chemistry idea in words rather than using unsupported displayed-formula diagrams.
Common mistake
Misunderstanding Alcohol Reactions
Students often confuse the reactions of alcohols with those of alkenes, thinking they behave the same way in chemical reactions.
Focus on the functional group –OH in alcohols and remember that they undergo different reactions compared to alkenes, particularly in combustion and oxidation.
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