Esters, fats and oils

Question 1

Ester link

Answer 1

O
||
-C-O-

Question 2

How are esters produced?

Answer 2

From a reaction between an alcohol and a carboxylic acid.

Question 3

Naming esters

Answer 3

Alcohol(yl) carboxylic acid(ate)

Question 4

Uses of esters

Answer 4

Flavourings, fragrances and solvents for other non-polar compounds.

Question 5

Reaction that forms esters

Answer 5

1. Condensation.
2. Combines alcohol and carboxylic acid, removing water.

Question 6

Reaction that breaks esters

Answer 6

1. Hydrolysis.
2. Separates ester into alcohol and carboxylic acid, adding water.

Question 7

How are edible fats and oils formed?

Answer 7

Edible fats and oils are esters formed from the condensations of glycerol (propan-1,2,3-triol).

Question 9

Describe the differences in melting point between oils and fats.

Answer 9

1. Oils have a lower melting point than fats.
2. Oils are more unsaturated.
3. These double bonds prevent the molecules from packing as closely together, so the intermolecular forces are weaker - leading to a lower melting point.

Question 10

Need for fats and oils in the diet

Answer 10

1. Fats and oils are a very concentrated source of energy.
2. They are also essential for the transport and storage of fat-soluble vitamins.