Ethyl ethanoate is an ester used as a solvent in nail varnish remover. Describe how ethyl ethanoate could be made in the laboratory from ethanoic acid, and explain why the product formed is classified as an ester.

Eduqas A-Level Chemistry — 4.5 Carboxylic acids and their derivatives · Describe and Explain · 5 marks · View as Markdown

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

Ethyl ethanoate has the smell of pear drops and is widely used as an industrial solvent.

Model answer (5 marks)

1. React ethanoic acid with ethanol in the presence of a strong acid catalyst such as concentrated sulphuric acid.
2. The reaction is an esterification, a condensation reaction that removes a molecule of water.
3. The product contains the –COO– functional group, characteristic of esters.
4. The ester is formed when the carboxyl group of a carboxylic acid reacts with the –OH of an alcohol.
5. Because of the –COO– group and the alcohol-derived carbon chain, the product is classified as an ester.

Examiner tips

  • Use the word "esterification" and mention water loss to show condensation. Include the –COO– group when explaining classification. Show the acid catalyst explicitly. Keep the answer concise and to the point.

Common mistakes

  • Forgetting to mention the acid catalyst. Calling the reaction a simple substitution instead of esterification. Not identifying the –COO– group as the ester functional group.

Mark scheme (5 marks)

  1. React ethanoic acid with ethanol
  2. An acid catalyst is required (e.g. concentrated sulfuric acid)
  3. The reaction is called esterification
  4. An ester contains the –COO– (ester) functional group / formed when a carboxylic acid reacts with an alcohol
  5. Water is also produced / it is a condensation reaction

Key terms in this question

ester

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