Question

The reactions which produce alcohol as the product are :

• A. CH4 + O2 → (Mo2O3, Δ)
• B. 2CH3CH3 + 3O2 → ((CH3COO)2Mn, Δ)
• C. (CH3)3CH → KMnO4
• D. 2CH4 + O2 → (Cu, 523 K, 100 atm)

Hint:

Remember: - Methane can be oxidized to methanol using Mo₂O₃ or Cu catalysts under specific conditions. - KMnO₄/H⁺ on alkenes gives carboxylic acids or ketones — not alcohols. - Alkanes are generally inert to KMnO₄ unless activated.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Concept:
This question tests knowledge of organic reactions that yield alcohols as products. Key reactions include:

• Oxidation of alkanes under specific catalysts (e.g., Mo2O3) can yield alcohols.
• Catalytic oxidation of methane with copper catalyst at high temperature and pressure gives methanol.
• Oxidation of alkenes with KMnO4 / H+ gives carbonyl compounds (ketones or carboxylic acids), not alcohols.
• Oxidation of alkanes with KMnO4 generally does not proceed under normal conditions unless activated (e.g., benzylic or allylic positions).

Step 1: Analyze Reaction A:
CH4 + O2 → (Mo2O3, heat) → CH3OH
This is a known industrial process for partial oxidation of methane to methanol.
Produces alcohol (methanol).

Step 2: Analyze Reaction B:
2CH3CH3 + 3O2 → ((CH3COO)2Mn, heat) → CH3CHO / CH3COOH
This is catalytic oxidation of ethane producing aldehyde or acid, not alcohol.
No alcohol formed.

Step 3: Analyze Reaction C:
(CH3)3CH → KMnO4 → No reaction
KMnO4 does not oxidize simple alkanes under normal conditions.
No alcohol produced.

Step 4: Analyze Reaction D:
2CH4 + O2 → (Cu, 523 K, 100 atm) → 2CH3OH
Direct oxidation of methane to methanol.
Produces alcohol (methanol).

Step 5: Analyze Reaction E:
CH3-CH=CH-CH3 → (KMnO4 / H+) → 2CH3COOH
Oxidative cleavage gives carboxylic acid, not alcohol.
No alcohol produced.

Conclusion:
Only reactions A and D produce alcohol as the product.
Hence, the correct option is (1) A and D only.