Q18 / 180 · KCET 2015 · Chemistry

The distinguishing test between methanoic acid and ethanoic acid is

  • A
    Litmus test
  • Correct answer
    B
    Tollen'stest
  • C
    Esterification test
  • D
    Sodium bicarbonate test

Solution

Formic acid contains a hydrogen atom attached to carbonyl carbon like an aldehyde \( H-\stackrel{o}{C}- \), therefore, like aldehydes it reduces Tollens' reagent, but ethanoic acid is a true carboxylic acid which does not \( H-\stackrel{\|}{C}- \) group, hence cannot reduces Tollens' reagent.

Hence, the correct answer is option: 'B'.

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