How would you synthesise an carboxylic acid just from a primary haloalkane like bromoethane?

Nucleophilic substitution using NaOH to convert haloalkane to primary alcohol. This is a mechanism that you need to know for the exam. Then oxidise the alcohol by refluxing with acidified potassium dichromate to form the carboxylic acid. Reflux needed because if it isn't heated enough, the aldehyde would form instead! Step 1 : RBr + NaOH --> ROH + NaBr Step 2 : ROH + 2[O] --> RCOOH + H2O

OW
Answered by Ollie W. Chemistry tutor

4452 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

What reaction occurs when benzene is mixed with equal amounts of sulphuric and nitric acid?


The pH of pure water can vary depending on the temperature it is held at. Does that mean pure water can be acidic or alkaline?


Explain why the product of a nucleophilic addition to butanone does not effect plane polarized light.


Explain the term 'homologous series'


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning