Question

Distinguish between esterification and saponification reactions of organic compounds.

Answer 1

Esterification reaction is the reaction between carboxylic acids and alcohols. In such reactions, esters get formed. Esters are sweet-smelling organic compounds with the general formula RCOOR. The general reaction for esterification reaction is:

Alcohol and carboxylic acid can be re-obtained from an ester by treating it with an acid or a base. This reaction is used in the preparation of soaps and is known as saponification reaction.