When alkanols react with sodium, the ga evolved is
Answer Details
When alkanols react with sodium, the gas evolved is hydrogen. This is because sodium is more reactive than hydrogen and reacts with alkanols to liberate hydrogen gas. The reaction is as follows:
R-OH + Na → R-ONa + 1/2H2
where R represents the alkyl group. The reaction is a redox reaction, in which sodium is oxidized and alkanols are reduced. The hydrogen gas evolved can be tested using the 'squeaky pop' test, which involves holding a lighted splint near the gas. The hydrogen gas ignites with a squeaky pop sound due to its high reactivity with oxygen.