Why Doesn't CH3CH2OH Conduct Electricity but CH3COOH Does?

AI Thread Summary
CH3CH2OH (ethanol) does not conduct electricity because it is a covalent compound that does not dissociate into ions in solution. In contrast, CH3COOH (acetic acid) is a weak organic acid that partially dissociates into CH3COO- and H+ ions, allowing it to conduct electricity. The discussion highlights the importance of the stability of the conjugate base formed when these molecules lose a proton, with CH3COO- being more stable than CH3CH2O-. This stability contributes to the acidity of acetic acid compared to ethanol. Understanding these differences in molecular behavior is key to grasping why some organic compounds can conduct electricity while others cannot.
MoMo Morgan
Messages
6
Reaction score
0

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.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
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-?
 

Thread 'Prove that evolution is constant (Provide at least two arguments to support your position)'

I don't get how to argue it. i can prove: evolution is the ability to adapt, whether it's progression or regression from some point of view, so if evolution is not constant then animal generations couldn`t stay alive for a big amount of time because when climate is changing this generations die. but they dont. so evolution is constant. but its not an argument, right? how to fing arguments when i only prove it.. analytically, i guess it called that (this is indirectly related to biology, im...
View full post »

Similar threads

Electrical conductivity of SiCl4
Replies
6
Views
10K
Why Does BeF2 Have Covalent Bonds Despite Being an Ionic Compound?
Replies
5
Views
26K
B Why don't solids always stick together?
Replies
5
Views
4K
Why Doesn't CO2 Dissolve Ionic Compounds?
Replies
1
Views
2K
I How does Aluminum conduct electricity despite its non-conductive oxide layer?
Replies
7
Views
3K
Do holes conduct electricity in metal?
Replies
1
Views
2K
Why does piezoelectric need amplifying?
Replies
5
Views
4K
Graphene, why is it so strong, electrically conductive and flexible ?
Replies
1
Views
6K
My textbook says electrolytes conduct electricity by the Movement of
Replies
10
Views
5K
Why some solids are electrical conductors
Replies
3
Views
2K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top