Question

I know that sulfuric acid acts as a catalyst and removes water to help shift the equilibrium to form more productin an esterification. Can someone tell me if it is consumed?

My thought is no. If I am right, can someone tell me why it is not consumed. If wrong, still please explain. Thank you. :)

Answer 1

The definition of a catalyst is a reagent that is necessary for the reaction but it is not consumed. A catalyst IS used to form intermediates but before the final step is finished, it is regenerated so that the net consumption is zero. (In the old days I was taught that a catalyst was not UESED in the reaction but that is erroneous. It is used BUT it is regenerated so that the net loss is zero.)