During the esterification reaction between ethanoic acid () and ethanol (), concentrated tetraoxosulfate(VI) acid () is added to the reaction mixture. Which of the following statements correctly accounts for the dual function of concentrated in maximizing the equilibrium yield of ethyl ethanoate?
- It functions as a catalyst to increase the reaction rate and as a dehydrating agent to absorb water, shifting the equilibrium position to the right.Answer
- BIt acts as a strong inorganic acid reactant that undergoes irreversible ionic neutralization with ethanol to produce ethyl ethanoate complete to completion.
- CIt serves solely as a catalyst, which selectively increases the rate of the forward reaction and permanently increases the equilibrium constant ().
- DIt acts primarily as an oxidizing agent that converts ethanol into ethanoic acid before esterification begins.
Answer
Concentrated tetraoxosulfate(VI) acid acts as both a catalyst to speed up the reaction rate and a dehydrating agent to remove water, shifting the reversible equilibrium toward the formation of ethyl ethanoate.
The correct response accurately identifies both functions of concentrated tetraoxosulfate(VI) acid in esterification: it acts as a catalyst to increase the rate at which equilibrium is reached and as a strong dehydrating agent that removes water from the system, driving the reversible equilibrium to the right to maximize ester production according to Le Chatelier's principle.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Reversibility of Esterification and Dual Role of Concentrated H2SO4