Question

What role does sulfuric acid play in catalyzing the esterification process? Be specific. HINT: Review the mechanism in your textbook. It protonates the carbon atom of the carbonyl group (C=0) making the oxygen atom more electrophilic and susceptible towards nucleophilic attack by the alcohol. O It protonates the hydroxyl group (-OH) of the alcohol and converts it to a better leaving group, water (H20). It protonates the oxygen atom of the carbonyl group (C=O) making the carbon atom more electrophilic and susceptible towards nucleophilic attack by the alcohol. It protonates the hydroxyl group (-OH) of the carboxylic acid and converts it to a better leaving group, water (H2O).

Answer 1

Esterification is a relatively slow process at room temperature and does not proceed to completion.

Concentrated sulfuric acid is used as a catalyst which speeds up the reaction and also acts as a dehydrating agent, forcing the equilibrium to the right and resulting in a greater yield of ester.

I am not sure if it's correct