Chemistry 0620 · IGCSE · Carboxylic acids

Carboxylic acids — practice question

Carboxylic acids can react with alcohols to make esters, and the process is reversible. The equation for the reaction of ethanoic acid with ethanol is shown. $\text{CH}_3\text{COOH} + \text{CH}_3\text{CH}_2\text{OH} \rightleftharpoons \text{CH}_3\text{COOCH}_2\text{CH}_3 + \text{H}_2\text{O}$
(a(i))[1]

What is the name of the ester produced in this reaction?

(a(ii))[1]

Draw the structure of the ester that is made. Include every atom and every bond.

(b)[3]

Sketch an energy level diagram for this reaction.

(c)[2]

What does the term catalyst mean?

(d)[4]

Explain why a higher temperature increases the rate of reaction.

(e(i))[2]

State and explain what happens, if anything, to the amount of ester at equilibrium when the temperature is increased.

(e(ii))[2]

State and explain the effect, if any, of removing water from the mixture on the amount of ester at equilibrium.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 15-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: The ester formed is ethyl ethanoate.

  • Full mark scheme, point by point
  • Step-by-step worked solution
  • Write your answer & get it marked instantly by AI