Synthesis of Ethanol (Hydration of Ethylene)

C2H4 + H2O → C2H5OH

Обзор

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.

Участники

Роль Вещество Коэффициент Состояние
Реагент Ethylene C₂H₄ 1 (g)
Реагент Water H₂O 1 (g)
Продукт Ethanol C₂H₅OH 1 (l)

Пример из жизни

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

Промышленное значение

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

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).