A quick introductory look at the alcohols
2 marks · EasyExplain why all alcohols have similar chemical properties. Refer to their functional group in your answer.
Work this out on paper, then compare with the answer and worked solution below. With a free account you can submit written answers for marking.
Show answer
Also accept: All alcohols have an -OH group which gives them similar chemical properties.; Because of the presence of the hydroxyl group, alcohols have similar chemical properties.; The functional group is the same in all alcohols, so their reactions are similar.
Common mistakes: saying all parts of the molecule are the same; ignoring the role of functional group
Show mark scheme and worked solution
Marking points
M1 · 1 mark · Links chemical properties to presence of a common functional group
M2 · 1 mark · Names the functional group as '-OH' or 'hydroxyl'
Worked solution
All alcohols have similar chemical properties because they all contain the same functional group, the hydroxyl group (–OH). This group determines the chemical behaviour of the alcohols.