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The reaction of ethanol with ethanoic acid in the presence of a little concentrated sulphuric acid produces

Correct answer: B. an ester with a fruity smell

  • A. an aldehyde
  • B. an ester with a fruity smell
  • C. an alkene
  • D. a soap

Explanation

Esterification joins the acid and the alcohol with the loss of water, giving ethyl ethanoate, and the sulphuric acid acts both as catalyst and as a dehydrating agent to shift the equilibrium to the right. The reaction is reversible, so the yield is never complete. Esters of this kind are used as flavourings and solvents.

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About Alcohols

Alcohols contain a hydroxyl group attached to a saturated carbon atom and are classified as primary, secondary or tertiary. Their nomenclature, hydrogen bonding, acidity, oxidation, dehydration, reaction with sodium and conversion to haloalkanes are covered, along with the distinction between alcohols and phenols, where the hydroxyl group is attached directly to an aromatic ring.

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