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Nick Parks

What is the use of sulphuric acid in esterification reaction?

Brian Bilson  Follow

Sulfuric acid is used here with two purposes:

  1. It creates an acidic environment for the reaction. The esterification reaction requires acids to initiate and maintain[1].
  2. Sulfuric acid (especially when concentrated), can absorb water, which progresses the reaction as well as move the equilibrium towards expected product.

Footnotes

[1] Conversion of carboxylic acids to esters using acid and alcohols (Fischer Esterification)

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