Ester
Ester
Introduction
Structurally, an ester is a compound that has an alkoxy (OR)
group attached to the carbonyl group.
O
R C O R'
R may be H, alkyl or aryl, while R’ may be alkyl or aryl only.
Esters are widespread in nature. Many of the fragrances of
flowers and fruits are due to the esters present.
Ethyl butanoate is the chief component that accounts for the
pineapple-like aroma and flavour of pineapples.
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Nomenclature of Esters
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Synthesis of Esters
Preparative Strategies
Highlighted below are some of the most common strategies by
which esters are prepared.
The esters are commonly prepared from the reaction of
carboxylic acids, acid chlorides and acid anhydrides with
alcohols.
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Synthesis of Esters
Acid-Catalysed Esterification of a Carboxylic Acid and
an Alcohol
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Esters Derived from an Acid Chloride and an
Alcohol
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Esters Derived from an Acid Anhydride and an
Alcohol or a Phenol
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Reaction Mechanism of Aspirin Synthesis in
Neutral Media
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Reactions of Esters
Esters are less reactive compared to acid chlorides.
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Hydrolysis of Esters in Basic Media
Unlike the acid chlorides that hydrolyse readily in water, esters
do not hydrolyse readily in water.
The hydrolysis of esters requires an acid or base catalyst.
The products of the hydrolysis depend on whether the reaction is
conducted in a basic media or an acidic media.
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Mechanism of Hydrolysis of Esters in Basic
Media
Although hydrolysis is the cleavage by water, in a basic
environment, the salt of water (NaOH or KOH) is a stronger
nucleophile that the H2O molecule itself. The former thus is the
effective nucleophile in this media.
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Hydrolysis of Esters in Basic Media
Examples
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Reaction of Esters with Ammonia and Amines
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Hydroxamate Test for Esters
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