Answer to Question #187967 in Organic Chemistry for Geovani Clarke

Question

A breathalyzer test is used to detect drunken drivers. The crystals used will change colour, from orange to dark green, if ethanol vapour is detected. Explain the colour change and give a suitable equation for the reaction.

Answer 1

In the Breathalyze, alcohol reacts with the reddish-orange potassium dichromate solution and turns green. The degree of the color change is directly related to the level of alcohol in the expelled air.The more alcohol in the breath, the more the color changes to green, and this is quantified by the device.