The catalytic activity of the vapour-phase decomposition of 2-propanol over the Cu1.0-x Mgx-V2.0 oxide (0.0 less-than-or-equal-to x less-than-or-equal-to 1.0) series calcined between 500 and 1000-degrees-C was investigated in the temperature range 165-375-degrees-C using a flow system technique at atmospheric pressure. The catalysts were found to be selective dehydration types for 2-propanol. X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy studies were used to identify the structural changes caused by the alcohol decomposition reaction. The activity and selectivity results were discussed on the basis of the electrical and/or acid-base properties of the catalysts, which not only depend on the sample composition, x, but also on its calcination temperature. A tentative reaction mechanism consistent with the obtained data has been suggested.