The esterification reaction is reversible, reactants are in equilibrium with products as shown in the chemical equations below: Improving the Yield of Ester Prepared by Fischer Esterification Concentrated sulfuric acid is corrosive, avoid skin contact.Liquid carboxylic acids are corrosive, avoid skin contact.Alcohols are flammable, keep clear of flames.Safety Considerations for the synthesis of esters: Note: your round bottom flask now contains some ester (the desired product), as well as water, unreacted alcohol, unreacted carboxylic acid, and sulfuric acid. Turn off the heat and allow the mixture to cool.

Turn on the heating mantle to achieve a gently boiling of the reaction mixture.

Assemble the glassware as shown in the diagram below:.

Slowly add about 1 mL of concentrated sulfuric acid and a few boiling chips which will prevent 'bumping' (4).

Add 15 mL of alcohol (eg, ethanol) and 10 mL carboxylic acid (eg, glacial acetic acid), to a 50 mL round bottom flask.

The steps in the procedure for the synthesis of the ester ethyl acetate (ethyl ethanoate) are given below: No ads = no money for us = no free stuff for you! Synthesis of an Ester in the Laboratory Using Fischer EsterificationĪn ester can be synthesised in the laboratory by heating a reaction mixture consisting of the alkanol ( alcohol), the alkanoic acid ( caboxylic acid) and a small amount of concentrated sulfuric acid catalyst in a vessel fitted with a water-cooled condenser (Liebig condenser) to prevent loss of volatile material.

Esters of the low molar mass alkanoic acids and alkanols have fragrant, fruity odours, and are used in perfumes and artificial flavourings.

Synthesis or preparation of esters in the laboratory involves 3 steps:.

Fischer Esterification is the name given to the acid-catalysed reaction between an alkanoic acid (carboxylic acid) and an alkanol (alcohol) (3).

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