Reactions of alcohols

Solubility in water

Alcohols are soluble in water and form neutral solutions.

As the number of carbon atoms increases, the solubility decreases.

Reacting with sodium

Methanol + sodium = sodium methoxide + hydrogen

Ethanol + sodium = sodium ethoxide + hydrogen

Etc.

Reacting with oxidising agents

When alcohols react with oxidising agents they produce a carboxylic acid and water.

Methanol + oxidising agent = methanoic acid + water

Ethanol + oxidising agent = ethanoic acid + water

Etc.

Combustion of alcohols

When alcohols combust they release energy.

Combusting an alcohol in air produces carbon dioxide and water.

Remember to balance equation.