📖 Theory▼

Aim: To study the breakdown of esters under acidic and basic (alkaline) conditions.

Acid hydrolysis: CH₃COOC₂H₅ + H₂O ⇌ CH₃COOH + C₂H₅OH (reversible, catalyst: H⁺)

Base hydrolysis (Saponification): CH₃COOC₂H₅ + NaOH → CH₃COONa + C₂H₅OH (irreversible)

Note: Alkaline hydrolysis is faster and goes to completion. Acid hydrolysis is slower and reversible.

Conditions

🔮 Predict before you react

⚠️ Safety
  • Esters and ethanol are volatile and flammable — heat under reflux with a water bath/electric mantle, never a naked flame.
  • Dilute H₂SO₄ and NaOH are corrosive/irritant — wear goggles and gloves; add acid/alkali carefully and rinse splashes.
  • Always use anti-bumping granules and never seal the apparatus — reflux must vent to avoid pressure build-up.
  • Ester vapours are irritating to inhale — work in a well-ventilated area/fume cupboard.
  • Let glassware cool before handling; dispose of organic residues in the labelled waste container.
Ethyl ethanoate Condenser Select conditions and begin
Observations
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