A Levels Chemistry (9701)•9701/11/M/J/25
Explanation
Esterification of carboxylic acid and alcohol Steps:
- Identify reactants: propanoic acid (CH3CH2COOH) and methanol (CH3OH).
- Recognize reaction type: acid-catalyzed esterification forms ester and water.
- Write general formula: RCOOH + R'OH → RCOOR' + H2O (H2SO4 catalyst).
- Form ester: R = CH3CH2, R' = CH3, so CH3CH2COOCH3.
Why D is correct:
- Matches methyl propanoate formula from propanoic acid and methanol per esterification definition.
Why the others are wrong:
- A: Acetone, a ketone from unrelated reaction.
- B: Methyl acetate, from acetic acid (CH3COOH) + methanol.
- C: Ethyl acetate, from acetic acid + ethanol (CH3CH2OH).
Final answer: D
Topic: Carboxylic acids and derivatives
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