In: Chemistry
1. Sketch a proposed set up for the hot bath. Make sure that all of the listed equipment is included in the sketch (the drawing does not have to be of professional quality, of course.)
2. Calculate the theoretical yield of aspirin if 1.05 g of salicylic acid is combined with 2.0 mL of acetic anhydride. Follow your Result Sheet if you need help.
3. What is an ester?
4. Why is sulfuric acid added to the esterification reaction?
Ans: 4)
Esterification is a relatively slow process at room temperature and does not proceed to completion.
Concentrated sulfuric acid is used as a catalyst, and has a dual role:
Speeds up the reaction and acts as a dehydrating agent, forcing the equilibrium to the right and resulting in a greater yield of ester.