Camille Jeune T.

Quiones
2013-40998
1. Write the chemical reactions involved in tests A-F.
A. Solubility of Carboxylic Acids in 5% NaHCO3
1.
2.
B. Test for Acetic Acid

C. Test for Benzoic Acid

D. Formation of Esters
1. from carboxylic acids

2. from acyl halides

E. Hydroxamic Test

F. Hydrolysis of Acid Derivatives

1. acetic anhydride

2. esters

3. amides

2. Account for the higher reactivity of acyl halides to nucleophiles compared to carboxylic acids
or esters.

Acyl halides are more reactive to nucleophiles than carboxylic acids or esters because of the
substituent attached to it. Acyl halides have halogen as a substituent which is electron
withdrawing thus, increases electrophilicity and makes it more reactive. Also, acyl halides have
very good leaving groups.
3. Why should excess alkali be avoided in the test for acetic acid and benzoic acid using FeCl 3
solution?
Excess alkali should be avoided in the test for acetic acid and benzoic acid because it will be
converted to Fe(OH)3, which is rust.
4. What is the major disadvantage of base-catalyzed hydrolysis of an ester over an acid-catalyzed
hydrolysis?
Using base-catalyzed hydrolysis of an ester is slower than using an acid-catalyzed hydrolysis
since it is less reactive.
References:
Hunt, I. n.d. Chapter 20: Carboxylic Acid Derivatives. Nucleophilic Acyl Substitution. [html].
Available at: http://www.chem.ucalgary.ca/courses/350/Carey5th/Ch20/ch20-1-3.html