Which catalyst and conditions are used in the laboratory synthesis of ethyl ethanoate from ethanol and ethanoic acid?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. Concentrated sulfuric acid (H2SO4) under reflux
- Step 1: Fischer esterification reacts a carboxylic acid (ethanoic acid) with an alcohol (ethanol).
- Step 2: The reaction is catalyzed by concentrated sulfuric acid (H2SO4), which acts as an acid catalyst and dehydrating agent.
- Step 3: The mixture is heated under reflux to prevent loss of volatile organic reagents.
Answer
Concentrated sulfuric acid (H2SO4) under reflux.
Why not the others: 'Dilute sodium hydroxide (NaOH) at room temperature' saponifies esters rather than synthesizing them; 'Nickel catalyst under high pressure' is used for catalytic hydrogenation of alkenes; 'Iron catalyst at 450 degrees Celsius' is used in the Haber process.
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