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’.

Write the chemical equation for its reaction with ethanol to form compound ‘B’.

Answer 1

CH₃COOH reacts with ethanol to form fruity smell ester, this reaction is known as an esterification reaction.

\[\ce{\underset{\text{Acetic acid}}{CH3COOH} + \underset{\text{Ethanol}}{C2H5OH} -> \underset{\text{Ethyl acetate}}{CH3COOC2H5} + H2O}\]