A Levels Chemistry (9701)•9701/12/O/N/21
Explanation
Ester hydrolysis (saponification) Steps:
- Identify ethyl butanoate as CH3CH2CH2COOCH2CH3, an ester.
- Recognize reaction with dilute NaOH(aq) upon heating as base-catalyzed hydrolysis.
- Break ester bond: carboxylate group forms sodium butanoate (CH3CH2CH2COONa), alkoxy group forms ethanol (CH3CH2OH).
- Confirm products: sodium butanoate and ethanol; water is reactant/solvent.
Why D is correct:
- D (ethanol) is the alcohol product from the ester's alkoxy portion, per saponification formula RCOOR' + NaOH → RCOONa + R'OH.
Why the others are wrong:
- A: Sodium butanoate is a product, but question likely seeks all or specific pair; D completes it.
- B: Water is the aqueous medium, not generated as a net product.
- C: Sodium ethanoate (from acetate) mismatches butanoate's four-carbon chain.
Final answer: D
Topic: Carboxylic acids and derivatives
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