Unit 2 - 5.1 - Esters

Question 1

How are Esters formed?

Answer 1

Through the process of Esterification, which is a condensation reaction between an alcohol and a carboxylic acid. In this process, water is eliminated

Question 2

Explain what happens during a general condensation reaction

Answer 2

Two molecules join and produce a larger molecule whilst eliminating a small molecule.

Question 3

List 4 uses of esters

Answer 3

• Perfumes - because they are volatile
• Artificial flavourings in the food industry
• Solvents for paints
• Medication

Question 4

Describe the 2 types of hydrolysis reactions that break esters down

Answer 4

• Acid catalysed hydrolysis (reversible)
• Alkaline hydrolysis (permanent)

Question 5

• What are esters broken down into?
• How are they broken down?

Answer 5

• They are broken down into the corresponding alcohol and carboxylic acid they were made up of
• Hydrolysis (Acid and Alkali)

Question 6

Explain what happens during a general hydrolysis reaction

Answer 6

A molecule reacts with water to break down into smaller molecules