# Propanoic acid reacts with methanol to form an ester. Describe the type of reaction that occurs, name the ester produced, identify the functional group present in the ester, and explain one use of esters.

> AQA A-Level Chemistry (7405) — 3.3.9 Carboxylic acids and derivatives (A-Level only) · Describe · 5 marks

## Mark scheme (5 marks)

1. The reaction is a condensation reaction
2. Water is produced / lost as a small molecule during the reaction
3. The ester produced is methyl propanoate
4. The functional group present in the ester is –COO– / the ester linkage / ester functional group
5. Esters are used as flavourings / perfumes / solvents (any one valid use)

## Key terms

- [ester](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/ester)
- [functional group](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/functional-group)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/propanoic-acid-reacts-with-methanol-to-f6064527) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.