Question
Could you explain in detail why a saponification reaction is considered to be the reverse of an esterification reaction.
Answers
GK
Esterification = Reaction of an organic acid with an alcohol to form an ester and water.
Saponification = Reaction of a basic (NaOH) solution with an ester to form a salt of the organic acid and the alcohol in the ester. The acid in the ester is pulled out as a salt (soap) along with the alcohol.
Saponification = Reaction of a basic (NaOH) solution with an ester to form a salt of the organic acid and the alcohol in the ester. The acid in the ester is pulled out as a salt (soap) along with the alcohol.