The esterification reaction of acetic acid and ethanol
Now there is acetic acid and ethanol, and the two can form an esterification reaction. Acetic acid, the taste is acidic and volatile; ethanol, warm and soluble.

When the two are mixed, sulfuric acid is used as a catalyst and heated, a wonderful change occurs. The carboxyl group of acetic acid interacts with the hydroxyl group of ethanol to remove a molecule of water and form ethyl acetate.

The reaction formula is as follows: $CH_3COOH + C_2H_5OH\ underset {\ triangle} {\ overset {H_2SO_4} {\ rightleftharpoons}} CH_3COOC_2H_5 + H_2O $. This reaction is reversible. To make it more ethyl acetate, the amount of reactants can be increased, or the water of the product can be removed.

Ethyl acetate, with a fragrant smell, is widely used in fragrances, coatings and other industries. Looking at the esterification reaction of acetic acid and ethanol, we can see the wonders of chemistry, which can turn ordinary things into useful materials.