Q50E
Question
Write two complete, balanced equations for each of the following reactions, one using condensed formulas and one using Lewis structures:
(a) ethanol reacts with propionic acid
(b) benzoic acid, \({{\bf{C}}_{\bf{6}}}{{\bf{H}}_{\bf{5}}}{\bf{C}}{{\bf{O}}_{\bf{2}}}{\bf{H,}}\) is added to a solution of sodium hydroxide.
Step-by-Step Solution
Verifieda) Ethyl propionate is the product
b) Sodium benzoate is the product
a) Reaction of ethanol with propionic acid
When acid and alcohol react together, they give an ester.
This ester has an acyl chain of an acid and an ester group of alcohol, meaning the product is ethyl propionate.
We have shown both types of reactions with Lewis structures and condensed formulas.
In these reactions, also, water is another product because both \(OH\) and \(H\) are removed from these groups.
Reaction (a)
Reaction of benzoic acid with \(NaOH.\)
In this reaction, benzoic acid is an acid, while \(NaOH\) is a base, meaning we have an acid-base reaction.
\(NaOH\) is a strong base which deprotonates benzoic acid at its acidic place, i.e., the OH group of the COOH group.
Then, the sodium cation forms a salt with a benzoic anion. Another product is water.
Reaction (b)