# Esters are formed in a condensation reaction between a carboxylic acid and an alcohol. Describe the formation of an ester, including the type of reaction, the functional groups involved, and two uses of esters.

> Pearson Edexcel International GCSE Chemistry (4CH1) — 4.7 Esters · Describe · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. An ester is formed by a condensation reaction between a carboxylic acid and an alcohol
2. The carboxylic acid contains the functional group –COOH and the alcohol contains the functional group –OH
3. The ester contains the functional group –COO–
4. Esters are used in perfumes and/or flavourings

## Key terms

- [ester](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/ester)
- [condensation reaction](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/condensation-reaction)
- [carboxylic acid](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/carboxylic-acid)
- [alcohol](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/alcohol)
- [functional group](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/functional-group)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Pearson Edexcel International GCSE Chemistry (4CH1)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Describe" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/esters-are-formed-in-a-condensation-c4891e93) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.