The conversion of alcohols to halogenoalkanes

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A 3D rendered illustration of ethanol molecules in white against a grey background

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Try this practical or demonstration to produce bromoethane in a substitution reaction between ethanol and phosphorus tribromide. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

In this experiment, students observe what happens when they add drops of phosphorus tribromide to a test tube containing ethanol. A vigorous substitution reaction occurs, producing bromoethane and phosphorus acid. 

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