Organic Chemistry - Functional Groups | Class 10 ICSE Chemistry

Group	Reagent / Test	Observation	Inference
Alcohol (-OH)	Add Carboxylic acid + conc. H₂SO₄, heat	Pleasant fruity smell (Esterification)	Alcohol present
Carboxylic Acid (-COOH)	Add Sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO₃)	Brisk effervescence (CO₂ gas)	Carboxylic acid present
Unsaturation (C=C)	Add Bromine water (Br₂)	Red-brown color decolorizes rapidly	Alkene/Alkyne present

Each sample contains one functional group. Test them to work out which is which.

Record at least two tests on this sample, then commit before revealing its identity.

Likely functional group Evidence (which tests, what you saw)

Concentrated H₂SO₄ (ester test) is highly corrosive and heats up violently with water — add carefully and wear goggles.
Bromine water is toxic and corrosive; its vapour irritates eyes and lungs — use small amounts in a fume cupboard.
Ethanol and other organics are flammable — heat using a water bath, never a naked flame near the vapour.
Esterification and NaHCO₃ tests release vapours/CO₂ — point the tube away from yourself and others.

Ready for testing

Lab Journal

Select a compound and apply tests...