# Ethyl ethanoate is an ester used as a solvent in nail varnish removers. Explain how ethyl ethanoate is formed, including the type of reaction, the reagents required, and the functional group present in the product.

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

> Ethyl ethanoate has the molecular formula CH₃COOC₂H₅ and is widely used as an industrial solvent due to its volatility.

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Ethyl ethanoate is formed by a condensation reaction
2. The reagents are ethanoic acid (a carboxylic acid) and ethanol (an alcohol)
3. Water is also produced / lost during the reaction
4. The functional group in the ester product is –COO–

## Key terms

- [ester](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/ester)
- [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 "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/ethyl-ethanoate-is-an-ester-used-ec83969a) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.