help pliz
2006-12-04 05:40:46 · 3 answers · asked by SweetAngel 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Chemistry
Any strong acid would do, but sulphuric acid is favoured because it is also a dehydrating reagent. If you look at the general equation:
acid + alcohol ---> ester + water, you will see that the equilibrium can be shifted to the right, and favour the production of ester, if water is removed.
2006-12-04 06:16:28 · answer #1 · answered by Gervald F 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The protons donated by the acid attach to the oxygen atom double bonded to the carbon. This removes 1 pair of electrons from the double bond and leaves the corbon with a positive charge. The oxygen from another molecule can now attach the carbocation and form the ester.
Not just any acid can be used. You need to use an acid whose conjugate base is a poor neucleophile. Nitric acid would be a good example of another acid you could use.
2006-12-04 13:48:36 · answer #2 · answered by Duluth06ChE 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
We use PTSA at my facility as a catalyst for many esters.
2006-12-04 13:56:37 · answer #3 · answered by Stonerscientist 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋