Question

The following chemical reactants produce the ester ethyl

ethanoate (C₄H₈O₂):

C₂H₆O + CH₃COOH

What type of reaction occurs to make ethyl ethanoate?

a. condensation

b. hydrolysis

c. combustion

d. acid-base reaction

Short answer

The ester ethyl ethanoate is formed by the condensation reaction between ethanol and acetic acid.

Step-by-step solution

Introduction

Esterification is a reaction where alcohol and carboxylic acid combine to form esters and release a molecule of water.

Explanation

Hydrolysis is a reaction when the bonds in a large molecule are broken down by the addition of water into small molecules. Hence, option b is incorrect.

Combustion or burning requires a combustible substance, oxygen, and heat for the chemical reaction to take place. This reaction releases heat and light. Hence, option c is incorrect.

An acid-base reaction neutralizes the characteristics of the acid and the base to produce salt and water. Hence, option d is incorrect.

Condensation reaction involves the formation of a single molecule from two molecules releasing a small molecule such as water during the reaction process. An esterification reaction is a form of condensation reaction in which alcohol and carboxylic acid combine to form an ester releasing a water molecule. Hence, option a is correct.