Convert Propanoic acid into ethanoic acid.

Converting propanoic acid into ethanoic acid involves adding one carbon atom to the molecule. This can be achieved through a two-step process: oxidation and decarboxylation. Here's how you can do it:

Step 1: Oxidation of Propanoic Acid to Propanal

Start with propanoic acid (CH3CH2COOH).
Use a suitable oxidizing agent, such as potassium dichromate (K2Cr2O7) or Jones reagent (CrO3 + H2SO4), to oxidize the propanoic acid to propanal (CH3CH2CHO). This involves the removal of two hydrogen atoms from the carboxyl group.
Step 2: Decarboxylation of Propanal to Ethanal

Start with propanal (CH3CH2CHO).
Perform a decarboxylation reaction using a suitable catalyst, such as a mixture of sodium acetate (CH3COONa) and soda lime (a mixture of sodium hydroxide, NaOH, and calcium oxide, CaO).
This reaction removes a carbon atom from the molecule, resulting in the formation of ethanal (CH3CHO).
Step 3: Oxidation of Ethanal to Ethanoic Acid (Acetic Acid)

Start with ethanal (CH3CHO).
Use an oxidizing agent, such as silver nitrate (AgNO3) in the presence of sodium hydroxide (NaOH), to oxidize ethanal to ethanoic acid (CH3COOH), also known as acetic acid.
In summary, the conversion of propanoic acid to ethanoic acid involves oxidizing propanoic acid to propanal, then decarboxylating propanal to ethanal, and finally, oxidizing ethanal to ethanoic acid. Please note that these reactions might require specific conditions and precautions, so it's important to consult appropriate references and resources before attempting any chemical transformations.