Q. HOH₂C–CH₂OH on heating with periodic acid gives:
A) 2HCOOH
B) OHC–CHO
C) 2HCHO
D) 2CO₂
Explanation
[Solution from source] Periodic acid cleaves the C–C bond between the two –OH bearing carbons of a 1,2-diol. Each CH₂OH becomes H₂C=O, so ethylene glycol gives two molecules of formaldehyde. Glyoxal would need oxidation without C–C cleavage. Answer (3).
Reviewed by Dr. Abubacker
Physics Educator & NEET/JEE Specialist
Ph.D. in Physics with 19+ years of teaching experience.