# Ethanol reacts with ethanoic acid in the presence of an acid catalyst to form an ester. Describe what happens during this reaction, including the name of the ester formed, the type of reaction taking place, and the conditions required.

> Eduqas A-Level Chemistry — 2.7 Alcohols and carboxylic acids · Describe · 5 marks

## Mark scheme (5 marks)

1. The reaction between an alcohol and a carboxylic acid is called esterification
2. The ester formed is ethyl ethanoate
3. Water is also produced / formed as a product
4. An acid catalyst is required / concentrated sulfuric acid is used as a catalyst
5. The reaction is reversible / an equilibrium is established

## Key terms

- [ester](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/ester)
- [acid catalyst](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/acid-catalyst)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/ethanol-reacts-with-ethanoic-acid-in-574d6938) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.