E

Ester

Expert Written | Fact Checked | Sources Cited | AllChemicals Editorial Team

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

Frequently Asked Questions

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

View all "E" terms →
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Editorial standards: Chemical data is sourced from peer-reviewed literature, CAS Registry, NIST WebBook, and PubChem. Safety information reflects guidance from OSHA, ECHA, and IAEA. For educational purposes only — always consult official SDS documentation and qualified professionals before handling chemicals.