5 C2H6O + 12 H3O+ + 4 MnO4- → 5 C2H4O2 + 4 (Mn)2+ + 23 H2O
This is an oxidation-reduction (redox) reaction:
4 MnVII + 20 e- → 4 MnII (reduction)
10 C-II - 20 e- → 10 C0 (oxidation)
MnO4- is an oxidizing agent, C2H6O is a reducing agent.
Reactants:
Products:
- C2H4O2 – Acetic acid , Ethanoic acid
- Other names: Vinegar (when dilute); Hydrogen acetate; Methanecarboxylic acid , Methanecarboxylic acid , CH3-COOH
- Appearance: Colourless liquid ; Colourless liquid with pungent odour ; Colorless liquid or crystals with a sour, vinegar-like odor. [Note: Pure compound is a solid below 62°F. Often used in an aqueous solution.]
- Mn2+
- H2O – Water, oxidane