Synthesis of Ethanol (Hydration of Ethylene)

C2H4 + H2O → C2H5OH

Overview

Ethylene reacts with steam over a phosphoric acid catalyst at 300 C and 60-70 atm to produce ethanol. This is the primary industrial method for synthetic ethanol production. The reaction follows Markovnikov's rule.

Participants

Role Substance Coefficient State
Reactant Ethylene C₂H₄ 1 (g)
Reactant Water H₂O 1 (g)
Product Ethanol C₂H₅OH 1 (l)

Everyday Example

Industrial ethanol used in hand sanitizers, solvents, and chemical manufacturing is often produced by this process.

Industrial Importance

This is one of the largest-volume industrial organic reactions, producing millions of tonnes of ethanol for solvents, chemical synthesis, and fuel blending.

Properties

Type
Synthesis
Reversible
Yes
Energy
Exothermic
ΔH
-44.2 kJ/mol
Catalyst
Phosphoric acid (H₃PO₄) on silica

Related Reactions

Fischer-Tropsch Synthesis (General) Formation of Aluminum Oxide Formation of Ammonia (Haber Process) Formation of Barium Oxide Formation of Barium Sulfate Formation of Beryllium Oxide Formation of Cadmium Oxide Formation of Calcium Carbonate from Oxides Formation of Calcium Hydroxide Formation of Calcium Oxide (Quicklime)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the equation for Synthesis of Ethanol (Hydration of Ethylene)?
The balanced equation is: C₂H₄ + H₂O → C₂H₅OH.
What type of reaction is Synthesis of Ethanol (Hydration of Ethylene)?
Synthesis of Ethanol (Hydration of Ethylene) is a synthesis reaction. It is reversible under certain conditions.
Is Synthesis of Ethanol (Hydration of Ethylene) exothermic or endothermic?
Synthesis of Ethanol (Hydration of Ethylene) is exothermic (releases energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is -44.2 kJ/mol.
What conditions are needed for Synthesis of Ethanol (Hydration of Ethylene)?
This reaction requires a catalyst (Phosphoric acid (H₃PO₄) on silica).