Production of Ethanol

Question

ScanSolve AI Tutor · Accepted Answer

Let's solve this. a) Step 1: State the optimum temperature. The optimum temperature for the fermentation process, where yeast enzymes are active, is typically around 37°C. b) Step 1: Explain the role of air. Fermentation is an anaerobic process. If air (oxygen) is present, yeast will respire aerobically, producing carbon dioxide and water instead of ethanol. Step 2: Explain the effect of oxygen on ethanol. Additionally, in the presence of oxygen, bacteria can oxidize the ethanol produced into ethanoic acid (vinegar), reducing the yield of ethanol. c) Step 1: State another condition. Another essential condition for the fermentation process is the presence of yeast (or other suitable microorganisms). d) i) Step 1: State the catalyst. The catalyst used in the hydration of ethene reaction is concentrated phosphoric acid (H₃PO₄). ii) Step 1: State the temperature. The temperature used in this reaction is 300°C. Step 2: State the pressure. The pressure used in this reaction is 60-70 atmospheres (or 6-7 MPa). iii) Step 1: Compare the purity of the product. The hydration of ethene produces pure ethanol, whereas fermentation produces a dilute aqueous solution of ethanol that requires further purification (distillation), which is energy-intensive. Step 2: Compare the reaction rate and process type. The hydration of ethene is a faster and continuous process, making it more efficient for large-scale industrial production compared to the slower, batch fermentation process.

Production of Ethanol

Step-by-step solution

Part a· 1 step

State the optimum temperature.

Part b· 2 steps

Explain the role of air.

Explain the effect of oxygen on ethanol.

Part c· 1 step

State another condition.

Part d(i)· 1 step

State the catalyst.

Part d(ii)· 2 steps

State the temperature.

State the pressure.

Part d(iii)· 2 steps

Compare the purity of the product.

Compare the reaction rate and process type.

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