Chemical Structure of Ethyl Butyrate
Ethyl butyrate is an organic ester with the molecular formula
C6H12O2. It is formed from the reaction between butanoic acid (butyric acid) and ethanol.
Molecular Formula and Components
- Carboxylic acid component: Butanoic acid (
CH3CH2CH2COOH) - Alcohol component: Ethanol (
CH3CH2OH)
Condensation Reaction
The esterification reaction removes a water molecule and forms the ester bond:
CH3CH2CH2COOH + CH3CH2OH → CH3CH2CH2COOCH2CH3 + H2O
Condensed Structural Formula
CH3–CH2–CH2–COO–CH2–CH3
Functional Group
Ethyl butyrate contains an ester functional group represented by –COO–. This group connects the acid and alcohol parts of the molecule.
3D Geometry and Polarity
- The molecule has a polar ester group which makes it slightly soluble in water.
- The rest of the molecule is nonpolar, contributing to its volatility and aroma.
The structure of ethyl butyrate is responsible for its pleasant fruity scent, commonly associated with pineapple and used widely in flavorings and fragrances.