What is the reaction at the anode in a breathalyzer?
A) Ethanol is oxidized to acetic acid.
B) Acetic acid is reduced to ethanol.
C) Oxygen is reduced.
D) Hydrogen is oxidized.
E) Ethanol is oxidized to acetaldehyde.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In a breathalyzer, the anode is coated with a catalyst to facilitate the oxidation of ethanol to acetic acid. This reaction produces electrons, which are then transferred through the circuit to the cathode. Therefore, the correct choice is A, which describes the oxidation of ethanol to acetic acid at the anode.

What Is the Reaction at the Anode in a Breathalyzer