The reaction of carboxylic acids with alcohols in presence of cone. H2SO4 is called _________________?
Correct answer: A. esterification
- A. esterification
- B. neutralization
- C. hydrolysis
- D. saponification
Explanation
A carboxylic acid reacts with an alcohol in the presence of concentrated H2SO4 to form an ester and water: RCOOH + R'OH ⇌ RCOOR' + H2O. This acid-catalysed reversible reaction is called esterification. Students may choose saponification because esters are involved, but saponification is the alkaline hydrolysis of an ester, not its formation.
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About Nomenclature, Structure and Preparation
Carboxylic acids are prepared by oxidising primary alcohols or aldehydes, hydrolysing nitriles, esters and amides, and carbonating suitable organometallic compounds. Their structures, IUPAC naming, resonance stabilisation and acidic character explain why carboxylic acids differ from alcohols and phenols, despite all containing oxygen and hydrogen.
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