Chapter 12, Problem 1Q

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The method other than addition of excess of acetic acid needs to be explained that favors the formation of ester in the preparation of isopentyl acetate.

Concept Introduction:

Ester is an organic compound with the general formula RCOOR. It can be formed by the reaction of carboxylic acid with alcohol in the presence of acidic medium. This reaction is called as esterification reaction. The esterification reaction of acetic acid with isopentyl alcohol forms isopentyl acetate. The chemical equation can be written as follows:

  ${\text{CH}}_{\text{3}}{\text{COOH + (CH}}_{\text{3}}{\text{)}}_{\text{2}}{\text{-CH}}_{\text{2}}{\text{-CH}}_{\text{2}}\text{-OH}\rightleftarrows {\text{CH}}_{\text{3}}{\text{COOCH}}_{\text{2}}{\text{CH}}_{\text{2}}{\text{CH(CH}}_{\text{3}}{\text{)}}_{\text{2}}{\text{+H}}_{\text{2}}\text{O}$

Answer to Problem 1Q

Another method of involving right-hand side of the equation that will favor the formation of ester from acetic acid and isopentyl alcohol is removal of one of the product that is water.

Explanation of Solution

The reaction for the formation of isopentyl acetate is as given below:

  ${\text{CH}}_{\text{3}}{\text{COOH + (CH}}_{\text{3}}{\text{)}}_{\text{2}}{\text{-CH}}_{\text{2}}{\text{-CH}}_{\text{2}}\text{-OH}\rightleftarrows {\text{CH}}_{\text{3}}{\text{COOCH}}_{\text{2}}{\text{CH}}_{\text{2}}{\text{CH(CH}}_{\text{3}}{\text{)}}_{\text{2}}{\text{+H}}_{\text{2}}\text{O}$

According to Le Chatelier's principle, if the equilibrium reaction is subjected to any change in the concentration, temperature or pressure, the reaction always moves in that direction that can reduce the effect of change. If water is removed in the given reaction, the equilibrium will move towards right side to form more products.

Conclusion

Another method of involving right-hand side of the equation that will favor the formation of ester from acetic acid and isopentyl alcohol is removal of one of the product that is water.