Question

The key raw material for the commercial production of methanol is

• A. Formaldehyde
• B. Acetic acid
• C. Synthesis gas
• D. Ethanol

Hint:

Methanol is commercially produced from synthesis gas, a mixture mainly containing \(CO\) and \(H_2\).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Methanol is an important industrial chemical. Commercially, methanol is produced from synthesis gas. Synthesis gas is mainly a mixture of: \[ CO \] and: \[ H_2. \] The main reaction for methanol production is: \[ CO+2H_2\rightarrow CH_3OH. \] Sometimes carbon dioxide also participates: \[ CO_2+3H_2\rightarrow CH_3OH+H_2O. \] Formaldehyde and acetic acid are products that may be made from methanol or related processes. Ethanol is a different alcohol and is not the key raw material for methanol production. Therefore, the key raw material for commercial production of methanol is: \[ \text{Synthesis gas}. \]