What sweet-smelling organic compound is formed when ethanoic acid is heated with ethanol in the presence of a few drops of concentrated sulfuric acid catalyst?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: C. ethyl ethanoate
- Step 1: Reaction between a carboxylic acid and an alcohol in the presence of mineral acid is esterification: CH₃COOH + CH₃CH₂OH <=> CH₃COOCH₂CH₃ + H₂O. Step 2. The resulting ester is ethyl ethanoate, characterized by a sweet, fruity aroma. Answer: ethyl ethanoate. Why not the others: Diethyl ether is prepared by dehydration of ethanol alone at 140°C; ethanal is an aldehyde formed by oxidation; ethoxyethane is another name for diethyl ether.
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