Chapter U2.35, Problem 1E

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The reason for the conversion of carboxylic acid to an ester to be useful needs to be explained.

Concept introduction:

A process in which some substances, known as reactants, transform into different substances, known as products is known as a chemical reaction.

Explanation of Solution

The reaction between alcohols and carboxylic acids takes place to give esters. Esters have a general formula RCOOR’. Here, R group is from carboxylic acid and R’ group is from alcohol. The alcohol is normally used as solvent so it is present in excess amount. The general esterification reaction is represented as follows:

Ester formation is useful because in this reaction, two functional groups (carboxylic acid and alcohol) combined and form a new functional group (ester).

Here esters have sweet smell so they are used in perfumes also they are good organic solvent.