Esters Flashcards
What is the functional group for esters and how are they formed?
The functional group is -COO- and they are formed from an alcohol and a carboxylic acid.
What are two examples of esters that are formed?
1) ethanol + ethanoic acid —> ethyl ethanoate + water
2) methanol + propanoic acid —> methyl propionate + water
What are the properties of esters?
1) pleasant smells
2) flammable
3) don’t mix well with water
4) mix well with alcohols and other organic solvents
What are they often used in?
Perfumes, falvourings / aromas, ointments, solvents for paint, ink glue etc.
What needs to be thought about when using esters?
1) inhaling fumes irritates the mouth and nose
2) the fumes are very flammable
3) some are toxic in large doses
What is a positive of using esters?
They aren’t as volatile or toxic as other organic solvents so have replaced solvents such as toluene in many paints and varnishes.
