Question

Molecular formula of an organic compound A is C₃H₈O. It has a functional group attached to the first carbon atom. This compound reacts with sodium at room temperature evolving hydrogen gas. Identify compound A and draw its structure. 

Answer 1

Compound A is propan-1-ol (or n-propyl alcohol). It has molecular formula C_3​H₈​O and the hydroxyl group (−OH) is attached to the first carbon atom and the compound reacts with sodium to evolve hydrogen gas, the functional group is –OH.

Structure: \[\ce{CH3 − CH2 − CH2 − OH}\]