Esters

Esters () are the derivative of carboxylic acids in which the –OH group of the carboxylic acids has been replaced by –OR group. There general formula is C_nH_2n+1COOC_nH_2n+1. For example,

Name	Mol. Formula	Structural Formula
Methyl acetate	CH3COOCH3
Ethyle acetate	CH3COOC2H5

Preparation of Esters

Esters can be prepared by reacting acetic acid with ethanol in the presence of conc. H₂SO₄ as catalyst. This process is called esterification.

Uses of Esters: Following are the uses of esters:

1. Esters are used as artificial fruit flavours for making essences in cold drinks, ice-creams and sweets etc.
2. Esters are used as solvent for oils, fats and varnishes.
3. Esters are also used in making artificial perfumes.

Test your understanding and answer these questions:

1. What are esters? give examples.