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JAMB Chemistry 1984 Question 45

Question 45

Alkanoic Acids and Esters

The function of conc. H2SO4 in the esterification of ethanoic acid with ethanol is to

  1. A.serve as a dehydrating agent
  2. B.serve as a solvent
  3. C.act as a catalyst
  4. D.prevent any side reaction
  5. E.serve as an oxidizing agent.
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C (act as a catalyst)

Explanation

A few drops of concentrated H2SO4 provide H+ ions that speed up the reaction between the acid and the alcohol, so it acts as a catalyst.