Uses of esters
4 marks · NormalA group of chemists are making compounds for use in food and cosmetic products.
State one common property of esters that makes them useful as perfumes.
Name two types of products (other than perfumes) where esters are commonly used as flavourings.
Give a reason why chemists use mixtures of esters in artificial flavourings.
Work this out on paper, then compare with the answer and worked solution below. With a free account you can submit written answers for marking.
Show answer
(a) Esters are volatile/have pleasant fruity smells.
(b) Sweets, drinks, or any two food products.
(c) To create more realistic or complex fruit flavours.
Common mistakes: solvents (not for food flavour); confusing esters with other organic compounds
Show mark scheme and worked solution
Marking points
B1 (a) · 1 mark · One correct property (e.g. volatile, fruity smell)
B2 (b) · 1 mark · Any correct product, e.g. sweets or drinks
B3 (b) · 1 mark · A second correct product mentioned
B4 (c) · 1 mark · Reason refers to making artificial flavours more realistic or pleasing
Worked solution
(a) Esters are volatile and have pleasant fruity smells.
(b) Sweets and soft drinks are two examples where esters are used as flavourings.
(c) Chemists use mixtures to create more realistic fruit flavours similar to those found in nature.