Reaction 1 is an oxidation reaction. Give the reagent(s) and conditions needed for reaction 1.
Construct an equation to represent reaction 1. Use $[\text{O}]$ to represent an oxygen atom from the oxidising agent in this reaction.
Suggest the type of reaction that occurs in reaction 2.
$\text{H}_2\text{SO}_4$ acts as a homogeneous catalyst in reaction 3. Explain why $\text{H}_2\text{SO}_4$ is described as homogeneous.
Reaction 2 must be carried out without water present so that compound $C$ is not formed. If $C$ is included in the reaction mixture for reaction 3, a different compound, compound $D$, will also be produced. Compound $D$ has two identical functional groups. The infrared spectrum of $D$ has strong absorptions at $1100\,\text{cm}^{-1}$ and $1720\,\text{cm}^{-1}$, but no absorption caused by O-H bonds. Use the Data Booklet to identify the functional group present in $D$. Explain your answer as fully as you can.
Draw the structure of E.
Suggest why $\text{NaBH}_4$ is not a suitable reagent to make F, $(\text{CH}_2\text{OH})_2$, from C. Explain your answer.
Construct an equation for the reaction of $(\text{CH}_2\text{OH})_2$ with $\text{SOCl}_2$ to form G, $(\text{CH}_2\text{Cl})_2$.
Explain why C is very soluble in water.