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MCAT Organic Question — Acidic Conditions

What is the product of water and ethyl ethanoate under acidic conditions?

 

a) ethanoic acid and ethanol

b) butanol and water

c) ethanoic acid, 2 equivalents

d) ethanol, 2 equivalents

 

Explanation

 

When mixed with water under acidic or basic conditions, esters undergo hydrolysis. The products are a carboxylic acid and an alcohol.

a) ethanoic acid and ethanol, correct.

b) butanol and water, incorrect, Ethyl ethanoate does not lose its ester group to become a four-carbon alcohol.

c) ethanoic acid, 2 equivalents, incorrect, Hydrolysis of an ester forms carboxylic acid and alcohol.

d) ethanol, 2 equivalents, incorrect, Hydrolysis of an ester forms carboxylic acid and alcohol.

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