1.Which of the following statements are true about sulfuric acid\'s role in the

Question

1.Which of the following statements are true about sulfuric acid's role in the esterification reaction.  Note that there may be more than one correct answer.

3.Why is a sodium bicarbonate solution used to extract the ether (organic) layer.  Note that there may be more than one correct answer.

sulfuric acid is added to lower the boiling point of the reaction mixture. sulfuric acid protonates the carboxylic acid in the first step of the reaction mechanism sulfuric acid is used to ensure the alcohol will dissolve in ether sulfuric acid protonates the ester in the first step of the reaction mechanism sulfuric acid protonates the alcohol in the first step of the reaction mechanism sulfuric acid reduces the concentration of OH- and slows the reverse reaction.   sulfuric acid is used to ensure the carboxylic acid will dissolve in ether sulfuric acid is added to react with excess sodium bicarbonate in the first step of the reaction sulfuric acid acts as a catalyst for the reaction

Explanation / Answer

1)

sulfuric acid protonates the carboxylic acid in the first step of the reaction mechanism.

sulfuric acid acts as a catalyst for the reaction.

sulfuric acid reduces the concentration of OH- and slows the reverse reaction.

2)

This is a reversible reaction and adding excess alcohol drives the reaction towards the reactants.

Excess alcohol completely neutralizes the sulfuric acid and makes the reaction safer.

3)

sodium bicarbonate reacts with any leftover carboxylic acid to form a salt that is INsoluble in the organic layer.

sodium bicarbonate reacts with any leftover sulfuric acid to form a salt that is INsoluble in the organic layer.

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