Methanol Oxidation to Formaldehyde

2CH₃OH + O₂ → 2HCHO + 2H₂O

Overview

Methanol is oxidized to formaldehyde by oxygen over a metal oxide catalyst. The carbon oxidation state changes from -2 in methanol to 0 in formaldehyde. This catalytic partial oxidation is the primary industrial route to formaldehyde, the simplest aldehyde.

Participants

Role	Substance	Coefficient	State
Reactant	Oxygen O	1	(g)
Reactant	Methanol CH₃OH	2	(l)
Product	Water H₂O	2	(l)
Product	Formaldehyde CH₂O	2	(g)

Everyday Example

Formaldehyde is used in particleboard and MDF manufacturing, and its solutions (formalin) were historically used to preserve biological specimens.

Industrial Importance

Over 50 million tonnes of formaldehyde are produced annually for resins (urea-formaldehyde, phenol-formaldehyde), plastics, and as a chemical intermediate.

Properties

Type: Redox
Reversible: No
Energy: Exothermic
ΔH: -323.0 kJ/mol
Catalyst: Silver or iron-molybdenum oxide

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the equation for Methanol Oxidation to Formaldehyde?

The balanced equation is: 2CH₃OH + O₂ → 2HCHO + 2H₂O.

What type of reaction is Methanol Oxidation to Formaldehyde?

Methanol Oxidation to Formaldehyde is a redox reaction.

Is Methanol Oxidation to Formaldehyde exothermic or endothermic?

Methanol Oxidation to Formaldehyde is exothermic (releases energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is -323.0 kJ/mol.

What conditions are needed for Methanol Oxidation to Formaldehyde?

This reaction requires a catalyst (Silver or iron-molybdenum oxide).