7(iv)
In a round bottom flask, a mixture of ethanol, acetic acid and concentrated sulphuric acid was heated.
Answer the following questions:
(a) Name the type of reaction occurring in the above set up.
(b) What is the role of sulphuric acid in this reaction?
(c) State one observation that takes place during the reaction.
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(a) Esterification reaction
$\underset{\text{ethyl alcohol}}{\text{C}_2\text{H}_5\text{OH}} + \text{CH}_3\text{COOH} \xrightarrow{\text{conc. H}_2\text{SO}_4} \underset{\text{ethyl acetate}}{{\text{CH}_3\text{COOC}_2\text{H}_5}} + \text{H}_2\text{O}$
(b) Dehydrating agent
(c) Fruity smell is observed due to the formation of ester by the reaction of ethanol and acetic acid.