Ethanoic acid reacts with ethanol to form an ester. Explain what type of reaction this is, name the ester produced, and describe two properties that make esters useful.

AQA A-Level Chemistry (7405) — 3.3.9 Carboxylic acids and derivatives (A-Level only) · Explain · 5 marks · View as Markdown

Written & reviewed by James Millett — Biology (Imperial College London), PGCE Science (University of Cambridge).

Carboxylic acids have the functional group –COOH. Alcohols contain the functional group –OH. When a carboxylic acid reacts with an alcohol, an ester is formed.

Model answer (5 marks)

The reaction is a condensation (dehydration) reaction.
The ester formed is ethyl ethanoate (ethyl acetate).
Esters give distinctive, pleasant, fruity aromas.
They are useful as solvents, e.g. in paints, glues and nail varnish.

Examiner tips

  • Use the term "condensation" and mention water loss. State the ester name correctly. Give two distinct properties: aroma and solvent use. Keep answer concise to fit 5 marks.

Common mistakes

  • Calling the reaction a "synthesis" instead of condensation. Giving the wrong ester name (e.g. ethyl acetate instead of ethyl ethanoate). Listing only one property or a non‑relevant property.

Mark scheme (5 marks)

  1. The reaction is a condensation reaction
  2. The ester produced is ethyl ethanoate
  3. Esters have distinctive / pleasant / fruity smells / aromas
  4. Esters are used as solvents (e.g. for paints, glues, nail varnish)
  5. A small molecule (water) is lost / released during the reaction

Key terms in this question

ester

Related

More Carboxylic acids and derivatives (A-Level only) questions

▶ Try answering this question with AI marking (free) →