Question

what are esters ?how they are prepared? list two uses of esters.

Answer 1

HI !

Esters are sweet smelling substances.

They are formed when ethanol reacts with ethanoic acid , in the presence of acid as catalyst (H₂SO₄).
This reaction resulting in the formation of ester is known as "esterification"

Ethanoic acid -> CH₃COOH
Ethanol -> CH₃CH₂OH
Ethyl Acetate(Ester) -> CH₃COOC₂H₅

                                                   Conc. H₂SO₄
CH₃COOH +  CH₃CH₂OH  ----------------------------> CH₃COOC₂H₅ + H₂O


Uses :-

<> Used in perfumes
<> Used in manufacture of dye
<> Used as a flavouring agent