A quick introductory look at the alcohols
3 marks · NormalA compound contains 12 hydrogen atoms and 6 oxygen atoms. It belongs to the alcohol homologous series.
Calculate the total number of hydroxyl () functional groups in this compound. Show your working.
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.
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6 (±0)
Also accept: Six; There are 6 hydroxyl groups
Common mistakes: Dividing hydrogen atoms by two to find -OH groups; Mistaking the formula for another homologous series
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Marking points
M1 · 1 mark · Identifies that each -OH group contains one oxygen atom.
M2 · 1 mark · Correctly deduces that the number of -OH groups is equal to the number of oxygen atoms present.
A1 · 1 mark · Arrives at the correct answer of 6 -OH groups. (follow-through)
Worked solution
The functional group of all alcohols is the hydroxyl group ().
Each hydroxyl group contains one oxygen atom. Therefore, the number of -OH groups in the compound is equal to the number of oxygen atoms.
Final answer: 6