Practical: making and testing the smell of some esters in the lab
2 marks · EasyExplain why the mixture of reactants is heated in a beaker of hot water rather than directly over a Bunsen burner when making esters in the laboratory.
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
Common mistakes: Saying it only heats more gently (without safety reason)
Show mark scheme and worked solution
Marking points
B1 · 1 mark · Recognises the reactants or ester product are flammable.
B2 · 1 mark · States that direct heating could cause a fire or explosion, so indirect heating (hot water) is safer.
Worked solution
The reactants (alcohols and esters) are flammable. Heating them directly over a Bunsen burner could cause them to catch fire. Using a hot water bath instead provides gentle, indirect heating and prevents fire risk.