How are the names of esters derived?

The names of esters are based on the parent carboxylic acid. The first part of the name comes from the alkyl or aryl group that has replaced the hydrogen of the acid. The second part of the name comes from the name of the parent acid, with the ending changed to -oate.


For example, methyl ethanoate comes from ethanoic acid, with the hydrogen of the acid replaced by a methyl group:

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What suffix is used to name esters?

Esters are named using the suffix -oate.

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What is the functional group of esters?

Esters have the functional group -COO-.

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What is the general structure of an ester?

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Describe, and give the word equation for, the production of esters from carboxylic acids.

Esters are produced from carboxylic acids through a process called esterification. In this process, an alcohol is warmed with a carboxylic acid in the presence of a small amount of concentrated sulfuric acid, which acts as a catalyst. The result is an ester and water.


Alcohol + carboxylic acid ⇌ ester + water

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What are some typical uses of esters?

Esters are typically used in flavourings and perfumes due to their pleasant smells. They are also used as solvents and plasticisers.

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Describe, and give the word equation for, the acid hydrolysis of esters.

In acid hydrolysis, the ester is heated under reflux with dilute aqueous acid. The ester is broken down by water, with the acid acting as a catalyst. The products of acid hydrolysis are a carboxylic acid and an alcohol.


Ester + water ⇌ carboxylic acid + alcohol

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Describe, and give the word equation for, the alkaline hydrolysis of esters.

In alkaline hydrolysis, also known as saponification, the ester is heated under reflux with aqueous hydroxide ions. The products of alkaline hydrolysis are a carboxylate salt and an alcohol.   


Ester + alkali ➔ carboxylate salt + alcohol

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