Which of the following is true of the Fischer esterification reaction?
A) It proceeds until the limiting reagent is completely used up.
B) It is an equilibrium reaction that can never be driven far to the right.
C) It is an equilibrium reaction that can be driven to the right by the addition of water.
D) It is an equilibrium reaction that can be driven to the right by the removal of water.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Fischer esterification reaction is an equilibrium reaction, meaning it can proceed in both forward and backward directions. The presence of water in the reaction can shift the equilibrium towards the reactants (reverse reaction) as water can react with the product (ester) to form the reactants (alcohol and carboxylic acid). Therefore, removing water from the reaction can shift the equilibrium towards the products (esterification reaction). Thus, option D is the correct choice.

Which of the Following Is True of the Fischer Esterification