Name the alcohol that is used to make the following ester ?
Alcohol Used to Make an Ester
An ester is a compound that is formed when an alcohol reacts with a carboxylic acid. The reaction is called esterification. Esters are commonly used in the fragrance and flavor industries because they have pleasant odors and tastes. The alcohol used to make an ester depends on the carboxylic acid used and the desired ester.
Types of Alcohols Used to Make Esters
There are three types of alcohols that can be used to make esters. They are:
1. Primary alcohols
2. Secondary alcohols
3. Tertiary alcohols
Primary Alcohols
Primary alcohols have the formula RCH2OH, where R is a hydrocarbon chain. They have one hydrogen atom attached to the carbon atom that is attached to the hydroxyl group. Primary alcohols react with carboxylic acids to form esters.
Secondary Alcohols
Secondary alcohols have the formula RR'CHOH, where R and R' are hydrocarbon chains. They have two hydrogen atoms attached to the carbon atom that is attached to the hydroxyl group. Secondary alcohols can react with carboxylic acids to form esters, but the reaction is slower than with primary alcohols.
Tertiary Alcohols
Tertiary alcohols have the formula R3COH, where R is a hydrocarbon chain. They have no hydrogen atoms attached to the carbon atom that is attached to the hydroxyl group. Tertiary alcohols do not react with carboxylic acids to form esters.
Example of Alcohol Used to Make an Ester
For example, if we want to make ethyl acetate, which is used as a solvent and flavoring agent, we need to react ethanol with acetic acid. Ethanol is a primary alcohol, and acetic acid is a carboxylic acid. The reaction between ethanol and acetic acid is:
CH3CH2OH + CH3COOH → CH3COOCH2CH3 + H2O
The product of the reaction is ethyl acetate and water.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the alcohol used to make an ester depends on the carboxylic acid used and the desired ester. Primary alcohols are the most commonly used alcohols to make esters. Secondary alcohols can also be used, but the reaction is slower. Tertiary alcohols do not react with carboxylic acids to form esters.
Name the alcohol that is used to make the following ester ?
Which ester...sorry dear i think question is incomplete...