Esters Flashcards
1
Q
how is esterification carried out?
A
- reaction of an alcohol with a carboxylic acid to form an ester
- reaction of an alcohol with an acid anhydride
- in the presence of an acid catalyst (e.g. concentrated H2SO4)
2
Q
what are the uses of esters?
A
- sweet smelling liquids
- used as flavouring
- colourless liquid
3
Q
what can esters by hydrolysed by?
A
- aqueous acid
- aqueous alkali
4
Q
what is acid hydrolysis?
A
- esters are hydrolysed in hot aqueous acid to form carboxylic acids and alcohols
- this is a reversible reaction
5
Q
how do you carry out acid hydrolysis?
A
- ester is heated under reflux with dilute aqueous acid
- ester is broken down by water, and the acid acts as a catalyst
6
Q
what is alkaline hyrdolysis?
A
- ester is hydrolysed in hot aqueous alkali to form carboxylate salts and alcohols
- this reaction is irreversible
7
Q
is both acid and alkaline hydrolysis how is the ester heated?
A
heated under reflux
8
Q
what would be an observation of an alcohol and carboxylic acid reaction?
A
- oily layer forms
- sweet/fruity smell
