Question

How do you oxidize a primary alcohol?

Answer 1

Usually with ease.

Explanation:

`"Alcohol " rarr " Aldehyde "rarr" Carboxylic acid"`

You need an oxidizing agent, commonly a metal oxide, i.e. typically `K_2Cr_2O_7` or `KMnO_4`. Selective oxidation to the aldehyde is difficult, but some reagents exist to effect this controlled oxidation.

Note that when you open a bottle of wine, the alcohol always turn to vinegar, the acid, on standing, and this thru simple aerial oxidation.