Does the total number of carbons in an ester affect its Kc of hydrolysis?

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The discussion centers on the relationship between the total number of carbons in esters and their equilibrium constant (Kc) during hydrolysis. The experiment involved five esters, including methyl benzoate, ethyl acetate, and ethyl formate, subjected to hydrolysis in the presence of water and concentrated HCl over nine days. The findings indicate that as the number of carbons in the ester increases, the Kc value decreases, although not in a proportional manner. The experiment was conducted under standard conditions, raising questions about the underlying reasons for this trend.

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nnoor
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Hello!

I am currently writing a research paper. I performed an experiment whereby I left 5 esters of different overall number of carbons (methyl benzoate, ethyl acetate, ethyl formate being 3 examples) in presence of water and concentrated HCl to reach equilibrium (in 9 days). I then titrated the solution against NaOH and did subsequent calculations to derive the equilibrium constant (Kc) values of each ester. What I found was rather interesting: the more carbons an ester has, the lower the Kc value, though not proportionally so. The experiment was done under standard conditions.

My question is, is there any particular reason or justification as to why this is so? Or was this rather just a fluke?

I appreciate any ideas of suggestions you have. Thank you!
 
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Are you sure you have measured Kc, and not reaction kinetics?

It is not to say that your observation is wrong.
 
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