Write the chemical equations for the following conversions: (not more than 2 steps) (i) Ethyl benzene to benzene (ii) Acetaldehyde to butane - 1, 3 - diol (iii) Acetone to propene

Let's break down each of these conversions step by step, focusing on the chemical equations involved. Each transformation involves specific reactions that can be represented succinctly.

Conversion of Ethyl Benzene to Benzene

To convert ethyl benzene to benzene, we can use a process called dealkylation. This typically involves heating ethyl benzene in the presence of a catalyst, such as aluminum chloride or a similar reagent.

• Step 1: Ethyl benzene undergoes dealkylation.

The chemical equation for this reaction is:

C₆H₅CH₂CH₃ → C₆H₆ + C₂H₄

Conversion of Acetaldehyde to Butane-1,3-Diol

In this case, we can achieve the conversion of acetaldehyde to butane-1,3-diol through a two-step process involving a reaction with a reducing agent.

• Step 1: Acetaldehyde is first converted to butanol.
• Step 2: Butanol is then oxidized to butane-1,3-diol.

The overall reaction can be summarized as:

2 CH₃CHO + H₂ → C₄H₁₀O₂

Conversion of Acetone to Propene

To transform acetone into propene, we can utilize a process called dehydration. This typically involves heating acetone in the presence of an acid catalyst.

• Step 1: Acetone undergoes dehydration.

The chemical equation for this transformation is:

CH₃COCH₃ → C₃H₆ + H₂O

These equations illustrate the fundamental reactions involved in each conversion, showcasing the beauty of organic chemistry and the transformations that can occur with the right conditions and reagents.