Question

What is role of concentrated Sulphuric acid in esterification?

Answer 1

1. When a carboxylic acid is treated with primary alcohol in the presence of Sulphuric acid, then a compound is formed which is having a sweet smell.
2. The compound obtained is called an ester.
3. The phenomenon of obtaining the esters is called esterification.
4. The chemical reaction occurs as follows:
   
5. Sulphuric acid works as a catalyst and a dehydrating agent.
6. Sulphuric acid helps in removing the water content of the reaction.
7. Addition of Sulphuric acid will speed up the reaction and therefore the equilibrium is achieved.