Carboxylic acids react with alcohols in a well-known reaction called esterification, usually in the presence of an acid catalyst such as concentrated sulfuric acid.
- In this reaction, the –OH group of the carboxylic acid combines with the hydrogen of the –OH group of the alcohol, leading to the elimination of a molecule of water (condensation reaction).
- The product formed is an ester, which is a sweet-smelling compound often used in perfumes, flavorings, and solvents.
- The reaction is generally slow and reversible, so an acid catalyst and heat are required to increase the reaction rate and yield.
- For example, when ethanoic acid reacts with ethanol in the presence of concentrated sulfuric acid, the ester ethyl ethanoate is formed along with water.
In short: Carboxylic acid + Alcohol → Ester + Water (in presence of an acid catalyst).