At what temperature are alcohols dehydrated using sulfuric acid?

Alcohols are dehydrated using sulfuric acid primarily at elevated temperatures, which facilitate the elimination of water and the formation of alkenes. The process occurs through an acid-catalyzed dehydration reaction where the alcohol is protonated, leading to the departure of a water molecule.

At around 170°C, the temperature is sufficiently high for the reaction to proceed effectively without leading to significant side reactions, such as further decomposition of the alkenes formed. This temperature strikes a balance, allowing for effective dehydration while minimizing unwanted reactions. If the temperature were significantly lower, the reaction rate would slow down, resulting in lower yields of the desired alkene. Higher temperatures, above 170°C, could lead to side reactions that would not be favorable for the synthesis of alkenes.

Therefore, the dehydration of alcohols using sulfuric acid is optimally conducted at 170°C, which is why this temperature is selected as the most suitable for the reaction.