When methanol is sprinkled over hot copper plate , the smell would be

Options

A. Oil of bitter almonds
B. Oil of mirbane
C. Formalin
D. Vinegar

Answer

To solve the question "When methanol is sprinkled over a hot copper plate, the smell would be?", we can follow these steps:

### Step 1: Identify the Reactants
- The reactant in this case is methanol, which has the chemical formula CH₃OH.

**Hint:** Remember that methanol is an alcohol and is known for its simple structure.

### Step 2: Understand the Reaction Conditions
- The reaction occurs when methanol is sprinkled over a hot copper plate. The heat from the copper plate will facilitate the reaction.

**Hint:** Think about how heat can influence chemical reactions, especially oxidation.

### Step 3: Determine the Reaction Type
- When methanol is heated in the presence of copper, it undergoes oxidation. This means that methanol will lose electrons and be transformed into different products.

**Hint:** Oxidation reactions often involve the addition of oxygen or the removal of hydrogen.

### Step 4: Identify the Products
- The primary product of the oxidation of methanol in the presence of copper is formaldehyde (HCHO). Additionally, hydrogen gas (H₂) is produced as a side product.
- If formaldehyde is further oxidized, it can form formic acid (HCOOH).

**Hint:** Recall that formaldehyde is a common product when alcohols are oxidized.

### Step 5: Consider the Smell of the Products
- Formaldehyde has a strong, pungent smell. When dissolved in water, it is known as formalin, which also has a distinct odor.

**Hint:** Think about the common uses of formaldehyde and its derivatives, especially in preservation and disinfection.

### Step 6: Conclusion
- Therefore, when methanol is sprinkled over a hot copper plate, the smell would be similar to that of formalin, which is the aqueous solution of formaldehyde.

**Final Answer:** The smell would be formalin-like.

### Summary of the Solution:
1. Identify methanol (CH₃OH) as the reactant.
2. Recognize that heat from the copper plate facilitates the reaction.
3. Understand that oxidation occurs, producing formaldehyde (HCHO) and hydrogen gas (H₂).
4. Acknowledge that formaldehyde has a strong smell, and when in solution, it is called formalin.
5. Conclude that the smell would be formalin-like.