What are the products of the base hydrolysis of an ester?

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the ester functional group in the molecule, which is typically represented as RCOOR'.
2. Understand that base hydrolysis of an ester, also known as saponification, involves the reaction of the ester with a strong base, usually NaOH or KOH.
3. Recognize that during the reaction, the ester bond (RCOOR') is broken, resulting in the formation of a carboxylate ion (RCOO-) and an alcohol (R'OH).
4. Write the balanced chemical equation for the reaction: RCOOR' + NaOH → RCOO-Na+ + R'OH.
5. Note that the carboxylate ion (RCOO-) is often paired with a metal cation from the base, such as Na+ or K+, forming a salt.

Key Concepts

Ester Hydrolysis

Ester hydrolysis is a chemical reaction where an ester reacts with water to form an alcohol and a carboxylic acid. This reaction can occur under acidic or basic conditions, with base hydrolysis often referred to as saponification. Understanding this process is crucial for predicting the products formed when an ester is treated with water.

Base Hydrolysis

Base hydrolysis involves the reaction of an ester with a strong base, typically sodium hydroxide (NaOH), leading to the formation of a carboxylate salt and an alcohol. This reaction is significant in organic chemistry and is commonly used in the production of soaps from fats and oils. The presence of the base accelerates the reaction and alters the products compared to acid-catalyzed hydrolysis.

Products of Hydrolysis

The products of base hydrolysis of an ester include a carboxylate ion and an alcohol. For example, when ethyl acetate undergoes base hydrolysis, it yields sodium acetate and ethanol. Recognizing these products is essential for understanding the implications of ester reactions in various chemical processes, including industrial applications and biological systems.