The oxidation of sec-butyl alcohol (2-butanol) can produce two different products depending on the reaction conditions:

1. Oxidation to a ketone (2-butanone):

This reaction requires a mild oxidizing agent like chromic acid (H₂CrO₄) or pyridinium chlorochromate (PCC).

Equation:

CH₃CH(OH)CH₂CH₃ + [O] → CH₃COCH₂CH₃ + H₂O

2. Oxidation to a carboxylic acid (butanoic acid):

This reaction requires a strong oxidizing agent like potassium permanganate (KMnO₄) or chromic acid (H₂CrO₄) in acidic conditions.

Equation:

CH₃CH(OH)CH₂CH₃ + 3[O] → CH₃CH₂CH₂COOH + H₂O

Note:

* [O] represents the oxidizing agent.

* The specific oxidizing agent and reaction conditions determine the final product.

* The oxidation of a secondary alcohol typically yields a ketone.

* However, with a strong oxidizing agent, further oxidation to a carboxylic acid can occur.