Question

Which of the following is a greener route to produce ethanal commercially?

(a) Catalytic cracking of ethanol

(b) Oxidation of ethene with an ionic catalyst

(c) Steam reforming of methanol

(d) Dehydrogenation of ethylene

The question was asked in quiz.

I'd like to ask this question from Green Chemistry in section Environmental Chemistry of Chemistry – Class 11

Answer 1

Right choice is (b) Oxidation of ethene with an ionic catalyst

Explanation: Ethanal can be prepared by oxidation of ethene, in the presence of an ionic catalyst in an aqueous medium. This is a greener method and gives 90% of yield.