Carboxylic Acids and Esters A2 Flashcards
What is the functional group for a carboxylic acid
COOH
How soluble are carboxylic acids
Up to 4 carbons, they are completely soluble in water due to the formation of hydrogen bonds
What are their relativistic melting points
They have higher melting points compared to corresponding alkanes due to hydrogen bonds between themselves
What is the functional group for esters
COO
How to name esters
The first part of the name (methyl) is the number of carbons connected to the O. The second part (methanoate) is the number of carbon atoms connected to the C (this carbon is included)
How to show carboxylic acids are weak acids
RCOOH RCOO- + H+
How do carboxylic acids react with bases
With hydroxides, a salt and water is produced. With carbonates, a salt with water and CO2 is formed.
How are esters formed
Carboxylic acids react with alcohols with a strong acid catalyst
What is formed when esters are hydrolysed
Esters react with water with a strong acid/alkali catalyst to form a carboxylic acid and alcohol
What are some uses of esters
solvents, plasticisers,
perfumes and food flavourings
What is the alcohol found in vegetable oils and animal fats
propane-1,2,3-triol (glycerol)
What is formed when esters are hydrolysed with NaOH
Hydrolysed with an alkaline catalyst produces sodium salts (soap) and glycerol
What is biodiesel
A mixture of methyl esters of
long-chain carboxylic acids
How is biodiesel produced
Reacting vegetable oils with
methanol in the presence of a catalyst
