How to Form Butyl Propanoate and Propyl Methanoate?

[amesalot57]

I came across this question and I don't understand how to approach it.
Write balanced equations to show the formation of each of the following compounds. Name the reactants in each case and show clearly the removal of the water molecule.
a) butyl propanoate
b)propyl methanoate
I don't understand

 

[chemisttree]

These are esters. Obviously you are being asked to produce them from carboxylic acids and alcohols (Fisher synthesis).

Any help?

 

[ravenprp]

how to approach this question and I don't know what the reactants are or how to show the removal of a water molecule.

To form butyl propanoate, also known as butyl propionate, you will need butanol (C4H9OH) and propanoic acid (C2H5COOH) as the reactants. The balanced equation for the formation of butyl propanoate is:

C4H9OH + C2H5COOH → C4H9COOC2H5 + H2O

In this reaction, a water molecule (H2O) is removed, and the butanol and propanoic acid combine to form butyl propanoate, with the chemical formula C4H9COOC2H5.

Similarly, to form propyl methanoate, also known as propyl formate, you will need propanol (C3H7OH) and methanoic acid (HCOOH) as the reactants. The balanced equation for this reaction is:

C3H7OH + HCOOH → C3H7COOH + H2O

In this reaction, a water molecule is removed, and the propanol and methanoic acid combine to form propyl methanoate, with the chemical formula C3H7COOH.

To show the removal of a water molecule, you can write "H2O" on the reactant side of the equation and "H2O" on the product side with an arrow pointing towards the product. This indicates that a water molecule is being removed during the reaction.

I hope this helps you understand how to form butyl propanoate and propyl methanoate. Remember to always balance your equations and clearly indicate the reactants and products.