Drawing and naming esters

2 marks · Normal

Describe what happens in an esterification reaction between propanoic acid and methanol.

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Also accept: An ester and water are formed when propanoic acid reacts with methanol in the presence of an acid catalyst.; Propanoic acid reacts with methanol to produce methyl propanoate and water.

Common mistakes: Confusing reactants (e.g., saying an alcohol and an alkane); Saying no water is formed

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Marking points

B1 · 1 mark · States that an ester is formed (or methyl propanoate) and water is produced.

B2 · 1 mark · Mentions the reactants combine in an esterification reaction (in acid catalyst or heating).

Worked solution

In an esterification reaction, propanoic acid reacts with methanol (usually heated with an acid catalyst) to form an ester (methyl propanoate) and water.