Chapter 23, Problem 54PS

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The name and structure of the product formed by the reaction of benzoic acid and 2-propanol should be given.

Concept introduction:

Ester: One $-OR\text{'}$ group is attached to the carbonyl carbon atom of the compound. It is represented as $RCOOR\text{'}$. The hydrogen atom of $-COOH$ is replaced by an alkyl group.

The IUPAC name for the esters is written by replcing the ‘e’ of alkanes from ‘oate’.

Esterification reaction: Esters are prepared by the reaction of a carboxylic acid and an alcohol molecule with the elimination of water molecule. The addition of a strong acid such as ${\text{H}}_{\text{2}}{\text{SO}}_{\text{4}}$ is used to increase the rate of reaction.

Here, the $-OH$ group is attached to the carbonyl carbon atom of the carboxylic acid is being replaced by $-OR\text{'}$ in the alcohol forming ester and water.