esters

• general formula: RCOOR - ester linkage
• the esterification rxn between a carbolyxic acid and an alcohol produces an ester and water as a by-product (aka a condensation rxn)
• a SA catalyst (H2SO4) is used with heating to increase rate of reaction
• esters are responsible for natural and artificial fragrance and flavourings in plants and fruits
• esters have 2 distinct parts; -COO- group from the acid and the alkyl group from the alcohol
• replace -oic acid with -oate

  name the alkyl group (from the alcohol) as you would any branch