CBSENEETJEEClass 12
What is an ester?
Answer
An ester is an organic compound containing the –COO– functional group, formed by the reaction of a carboxylic acid with an alcohol.
The working
Definition
An ester is a compound with the ester functional group –COO–, derived from a carboxylic acid and an alcohol.
Formation
Esters are made by esterification, where an acid reacts with an alcohol in the presence of concentrated H₂SO₄.
Reaction
For example, CH₃COOH + C₂H₅OH → CH₃COOC₂H₅ + H₂O gives ethyl ethanoate.
Property
Esters usually have sweet, fruity smells and are used in perfumes and flavouring agents.
Searched about 1,500 times a month in IndiaSolve a similar doubt →
Stuck on something else?
Type your own doubt into the solver and get the full working in seconds — free, for physics, chemistry, maths and biology.
Open the solverRelated doubts