Esters

Esters are derivatives of carboxylic acids which have the general formula  .
The reaction between a carboxylic acid and an alcohol yields ester and water.

                Nomenclature of Esters
The alkyl group bonded to oxygen atom is named first, then –ic acid ending of the corresponding carboxylic acid is changed to –oate.
               
Methyl methanoate   Methyl ethanoate                             Ethyl propanoate
Methyl ester                     Dimethyl ester                                 Diethyl ester

           
                Methyl benzoate

                Physical Properties of Esters

 
Ethyl acetate: apple
 
Propyl acetate: pear

 Ethyl butyrate: pineapple

 Isopentyl acetate: banana
 
n-pentyl butyrate: apricot
 
n-octyl acetate: orange

Chemical Properties of Esters

                Preparation of Esters