International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) Chemistry Practice Exam

What is an advantage of using the hydration of ethene to manufacture ethanol?

1. Slow rate of reaction

2. Low energy input

3. Continuous process and efficient

4. Uses renewable resources

The correct answer is: Continuous process and efficient

Using the hydration of ethene to manufacture ethanol is advantageous primarily because it is a continuous process and efficient. In a continuous process, reactants are constantly fed into the reaction system, and products are removed as they are generated. This setup minimizes downtime and enhances productivity, allowing for a more streamlined production of ethanol. Furthermore, the reaction conditions can be optimized for better yield and faster reaction rates, leading to efficient use of resources and potentially lowering operational costs. This efficiency is particularly important in industrial settings where maximizing output while minimizing resource expenditure is crucial for economic viability. Although other options may present certain benefits in different contexts, they do not offer the same level of operational efficiency and productivity that the continuous process provides in the hydration of ethene.