A liquid was mixed with ethanol and a drop of concentrated `H_(2) SO_(4)` was added. A compound with a fruity smell was formed. The liquid was

Options

A. `CH_(3)OH`
B. HCHO
C. `CH_(3)COCH_(3)`
D. `CH_(3)COOH`

Answer

To solve the question, we need to identify the liquid that was mixed with ethanol and concentrated sulfuric acid, resulting in the formation of a compound with a fruity smell. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the solution:

### Step 1: Understanding the Reaction
The reaction described involves ethanol (an alcohol) and a liquid that, when mixed with ethanol and treated with concentrated sulfuric acid, produces a compound with a fruity smell. This fruity smell is characteristic of esters.

**Hint:** Remember that esters are formed from the reaction of an alcohol with a carboxylic acid in a process called esterification.

### Step 2: Identifying the Components
Ethanol (C2H5OH) is the alcohol in this reaction. The liquid that was mixed with ethanol must be a carboxylic acid, as esters are formed from the reaction of an alcohol and a carboxylic acid.

**Hint:** Look for a liquid that contains the carboxylic functional group (-COOH).

### Step 3: Recognizing the Fruity Smell
The fruity smell indicates that an ester is formed. The general reaction for esterification can be represented as:
\[ \text{Alcohol} + \text{Carboxylic Acid} \xrightarrow{\text{H}_2\text{SO}_4} \text{Ester} + \text{Water} \]

**Hint:** Recall that the fruity smell is a key indicator of ester formation.

### Step 4: Identifying the Liquid
To find the liquid, we need to consider possible carboxylic acids. The liquid must have a carboxylic group to react with ethanol. Common examples include acetic acid (ethanoic acid).

**Hint:** Think about simple carboxylic acids that are commonly used in reactions with alcohols.

### Step 5: Conclusion
Based on the information provided, the liquid that was mixed with ethanol and concentrated sulfuric acid to produce a fruity-smelling compound is likely acetic acid (CH3COOH).

**Final Answer:** The liquid was acetic acid (ethanoic acid).