Chapter 4: Carbon and Its Compounds

Solution: In reaction with sodium carbonate, carboxylic acids produce carbon dioxide gas which turns lime water milky, whereas alcohols do not give this reaction. This experiment can be used to distinguish alcohol and carboxylic acid.

The reaction of the carboxylic acid with sodium carbonate:

2CH₃COOH + Na₂CO₃ → 2CH₃COONa + H₂O + CO₂

Solution: Oxidising agents are those compounds which either remove hydrogen or add oxygen to a compound. For example, halogens, potassium nitrate, and nitric acid.