This definitions covers Key Definitions within Alcohols for GCSE Chemistry. Revise Alcohols in Organic Chemistry for GCSE Chemistry with 22 exam-style questions and 15 flashcards. This topic appears regularly enough that it should still be part of a steady revision cycle. It is section 7 of 13 in this topic. Make sure you can use the exact wording confidently, because definition marks are often lost through vague language.
📖 Key Definitions
Alcohol: An organic compound containing the hydroxyl (-OH) functional group, with the general formula CₙH₂ₙ₊₁OH. Examples: methanol, ethanol, propanol, butanol. Named with the suffix "-anol".
Functional group: An atom or group of atoms within a molecule that is responsible for the molecule's characteristic chemical reactions. The -OH group is the functional group of alcohols.
Fermentation: The process by which yeast enzymes convert glucose (sugar) into ethanol and carbon dioxide, under anaerobic conditions at around 25-35°C.
Hydration: The addition of water (steam) across a double bond. In the industrial production of ethanol, ethene reacts with steam using a phosphoric acid catalyst at 300°C and 70 atm.
Practice questions for Alcohols
What is the functional group present in all alcohols?
Explain what happens when ethanol reacts with sodium metal. Include a balanced equation in your answer.