`CH_(3)-CH_(2)-OHoverset("Alkaline"KMnO_(4)+"Heat")(to)CH_(3)-COOH`
In the above given reaction, alkaline `KMnO_(4)` acts as

Options

A. reducing agent
B. oxidising agent
C. catalyst
D. dehydrating agent

Explanation

To determine the role of alkaline KMnO₄ in the given reaction, we will analyze the transformation of ethanol (CH₃-CH₂-OH) to ethanoic acid (CH₃-COOH) step by step.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Identify the Reactants and Products**:
- The reactant is ethanol (CH₃-CH₂-OH).
- The product is ethanoic acid (CH₃-COOH).

2. **Analyze the Change**:
- In the reaction, we observe that ethanol is being converted into ethanoic acid.
- This transformation indicates a change in the functional group from an alcohol (-OH) to a carboxylic acid (-COOH).

3. **Determine the Type of Reaction**:
- To convert an alcohol to a carboxylic acid, there is an addition of oxygen and/or removal of hydrogen.
- In this case, we see that the -OH group from ethanol is being converted into a -COOH group, which involves the addition of an oxygen atom.

4. **Define Oxidation**:
- Oxidation is defined as the addition of oxygen or the removal of hydrogen from a substance.
- Since ethanol is gaining oxygen (and losing hydrogen) to form ethanoic acid, we can classify this reaction as an oxidation reaction.

5. **Role of Alkaline KMnO₄**:
- Alkaline KMnO₄ is known to be a strong oxidizing agent.
- It facilitates the oxidation of ethanol to ethanoic acid by providing the necessary oxygen for the reaction.

6. **Conclusion**:
- Therefore, in this reaction, alkaline KMnO₄ acts as an **oxidizing agent** because it helps in the oxidation process of ethanol to ethanoic acid.

### Final Answer:
Alkaline KMnO₄ acts as an **oxidizing agent** in the reaction.

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