Esterification
Esterification
Esterification (pronunciation: /ˌɛstərɪfɪˈkeɪʃən/) is a chemical reaction that involves the formation of an ester from a carboxylic acid and an alcohol in the presence of a strong acid. The process is commonly used in organic chemistry and biochemistry.
Etymology
The term "esterification" is derived from the chemical compound class known as "esters." The word "ester" was coined in the 19th century by a German chemist named Leopold Gmelin, and it is a combination of the German "Essig-äther" (acetic ether).
Process
Esterification is a condensation reaction, which means it involves the removal of a water molecule. The carboxylic acid and alcohol react to form an ester and water. This reaction is catalyzed by a strong acid, usually sulfuric acid (H2SO4).
The general formula for esterification is:
R-COOH + R'-OH → R-COO-R' + H2O
Where R and R' represent any alkyl or aryl group.
Related Terms
- Ester: A chemical compound derived from an acid (organic or inorganic) in which at least one -OH (hydroxyl) group is replaced by an -O-alkyl (alkoxy) group.
- Carboxylic Acid: Organic compounds that contain a carboxyl group (C(=O)OH).
- Alcohol: Organic compounds that carry at least one hydroxyl functional group (−OH) bound to their aliphatic substructure.
- Acid: A molecule or ion capable of donating a proton (hydrogen ion H+), or, alternatively, capable of forming a covalent bond with an electron pair.
- Sulfuric Acid: A strong acid made by oxidizing solutions of sulfur dioxide with air, used in large quantities as an industrial and laboratory reagent.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Esterification
- Wikipedia's article - Esterification
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