Ester — Chemistry Definition | AllChemicals | AllChemicals

What is Ester?

An ester is an organic compound formed by the condensation reaction of a carboxylic acid with an alcohol, with the elimination of water. Esters have the general formula RCOOR', where R and R' are organic groups. They are characterised by pleasant fruity aromas and are widely found in natural fats, oils, and flavourings. Hydrolysis of esters in the presence of a base is called saponification.

Key Facts

Term Ester

Index All "E" terms

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ester?

An ester is an organic compound formed by the condensation reaction of a carboxylic acid with an alcohol, with the elimination of water. Esters have the general formula RCOOR', where R and R' are organic groups. They are characterised by pleasant fruity aromas and are widely found in natural fats, oils, and flavourings. Hydrolysis of esters in the presence of a base is called saponification.

More "E" Terms

Effective Collisions Effective Collisions E ≥ Ea (activation energy required) Effective Molality m_eff = i × m (van't Hoff factor) Effective Nuclear Charge Z_eff = Z − σ (Slater's rules) Efflorescence Hydrated salt losing water in air: M·nH₂O(s) → M·(n-x)H₂O(s) + xH₂O(g) Einsteinium Es Electrical Conductivity κ = 1/ρ; Λm = κ/c Electrochemical Cell Galvanic cell: ΔG = −nFE_cell; Electrolytic cell: ΔG = +nFE_applied Electrochemical Series Arranged by E° (standard reduction potential); SHE: E° = 0.00 V Electrochemistry E° cell = E° cathode − E° anode | ΔG° = −nFE° Electrochemistry Electrode

View all "E" terms →