Esters, fats and oils Flashcards
What is an ester molecule?
A molecule containing an ester link. (-O-(C=O)-
What are esters made from?
Esters are made from the condensation reaction of an alcohol with a carboxylic acid. The catalyst for this reaction is concentrated sulfuric acid.
What are esters used for?
Esters are used as flavourings and fragrances as many have pleasant, fruity smells. Esters are also used as solvents for non-polar compounds that do not dissolve in water.
How are esters formed?
Esters are formed by a condensation reaction between an alcohol and a carboxylic acid. This involves the alcohol molecule and the carboxylic acid molecules to combine together and eliminate a small molecule. In the formation of an ester, water is eliminated.
How are esters reformed back into the products?
To reform the ester back into the parent alcohol and the carboxylic acid water must be added. This process is called hydrolysis.
How are edible fats and edible oils formed?
Edible fats and edible oils are esters formed from the condensation reaction between glycerol and three fatty acids.
How do edible oils and edible fats compare in boilng points?
Edible oils have lower melting and boiling points than edible fats.
How does unsaturation affect the melting point of a molecule?
Double bonds in fatty acid chains prevent oil molecules from packing closely together, so the greater the number of double bonds present, the weaker the van der waals forces of attraction. The greater the degree of unsaturation, the lower the melting point.
What quickly decolourises bromine solution?
Unsaturated compounds
What are Fats and Oils used for?
A concentrated source of energy and are essential for the transport and storage of fat-soluble vitamins in the body.
