Unit Three: Esters Flashcards
1
Q
What functional group do esters have?
What do the names end in?
A
-COO-
‘oate’
2
Q
How are esters formed?
What else is usually used?
A
Form an alcohol and a carboxylic acid
An acid catalyst
3
Q
What are esters used in and why?
A
Perfumes, flavourings and aromas because they often smell sweet and fruity, they are also volatile
They are also used in ointments and as solvents for paint, ink, glue and in nail varnish remover
4
Q
Name some things that are dangerous/disadvantages about esters:
A
- Inhaling fumes from some esters irritates mucous membranes in the nose and mouth
- Esters are heavier than air and very flammable - flammable vapour + naked flame = flash fire
- Some are toxic
