An unknown organic compound X has a relative molecular mass of 180. It is a colourless crystaline solid, readily soluble in water. X contains the elements C, H and O in the atomic ratio 1: 2:1. The compound has a sweet teste and melts on heating. In the presence of yeast and in the absence of air, X is converted to compound Y and a colourless gas. Compound Y reacts with sodium metal to produce a gas Z which gives a 'pop' sound with a glowing splint. Y also reacts with ethanoic acid to give a sweet smelling compound W.
Reaction of X with yeast forms the basis of the