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JAMB Chemistry 2014 Question 46

Question 46

Alkanoic Acids and Esters

CH3COOC2H5(l) + H2O(l) ⇌ CH3COOH(aq) + C2H5OH(aq)
The purpose of H+ in the reaction above is to

  1. A.increase the yield of products.
  2. B.maintain the solution at a constant pH.
  3. C.increase the rate of hydrolysis.
  4. D.decrease the rate of the reverse reaction.
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C (increase the rate of hydrolysis.)

Explanation

The acid acts as a catalyst: it speeds up the hydrolysis of the ester but does not shift the equilibrium.