Why Doesn't CH3CH2OH Conduct Electricity but CH3COOH Does?

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SUMMARY

CH3CH2OH (ethanol) does not conduct electricity due to its molecular structure as a covalent compound, which lacks free ions. In contrast, CH3COOH (acetic acid) is a weak organic acid that dissociates into ions (CH3COO- and H+) in solution, enabling it to conduct electricity. The discussion highlights the importance of ionic versus covalent bonding in determining conductivity and emphasizes the stability of the conjugate base as a factor in acidity.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of ionic and covalent bonding
  • Knowledge of weak acids and their dissociation
  • Familiarity with organic chemistry terminology
  • Basic concepts of acid-base chemistry
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the properties of weak acids and their ionization in water
  • Study the concept of conjugate bases and their stability
  • Explore the differences between ionic and covalent compounds
  • Learn about conductivity in solutions and the role of ions
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Chemistry students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of acid-base reactions and electrical conductivity in solutions.

MoMo Morgan
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Homework Statement



Why doesn't CH3CH2OH (alcohol) conduct electricity but CH3COOH does?

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I did some research on the website( answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20080411203909AAqYaN1). It mentions about the difference of bonding between ionic coumpounds and covelant compund will result the difference in conductivity.


And in the end, the article mentions about
"Sucrose and any form of alcohol are molecular, covalent compounds (organic molecules. covalent = non-metal/non-metal bond)."

But isn't CH3COOH organic molecule?

I still don't really understand why CH3COOH will separate into two ions, CH3COO- and H+ while alcohol won't.
 
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The compound you express as CH3COOH, ethanoic acid (commonly called acetic acid) is a weak organic acid and will dissociate into ions, therefore the ions can conduct electricity.
 
Another way to think about it is to ask which molecule is more acidic, and why. In order to do this you have to consider the stability of the conjugate base that is formed when the two molecules lose a proton. Whichever molecule has a more stable conjugate base will be more acidic. What is it that makes CH3COO- more stable than CH3CH2O-?
 

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