Question

Name the two oxidising agents used for the conversion of alcohols to acids.

Answer 1

1. Acidified Potassium Permanganate (KMnO₄): When used in an acidic medium, KMnO₄ effectively oxidises primary alcohols to carboxylic acids by providing the necessary oxygen atoms for the formation of the acid.

2. Acidified Potassium Dichromate (K₂Cr₂O₇): In the presence of dilute sulphuric acid, potassium dichromate acts as an oxidising agent (often referred to as chromic acid in this context) that converts primary alcohols into carboxylic acids.