Question

An organic compound ‘A’ is widely used as a preservative and has the molecular formula C2H4O2. This compound reacts with ethanol to form a sweet-smelling compound ‘B’.

1. Identify the compound ‘A’.
2. Write the chemical equation for its reaction with ethanol to form compound ‘B’.
3. Name the process.

Answer 1

1. As ethanoic acid has formula CH3COOH and it is used as preservative. So, the compound ‘A’ is ethanoic acid.
2. $C_2{H}_{5}OH\left(aq\right)+C{H}_{3}COOH\left(aq\right)\to C{H}_{3}COO{C}_2{H}_5\left(aq\right)+H_{2}O$Compound B is ethyl ethanoate or ester, which has a sweet smell.
3. As compound ‘B’, which is formed is ester. So, the name of this process is Esterification.