The reaction between ethyl acetate and sodium hydroxide
The chemical reaction between ethyl acetate (Ethyl Acetate) and sodium hydroxide (NaOH) is a wonderful change.
Ethyl acetate has the characteristics of an ester, while sodium hydroxide is a strong base. When the two meet, it is like a meeting of circumstances.
At the beginning of the reaction, the hydroxide ion of sodium hydroxide is active and aggressive. In ethyl acetate, the ester bond is where it shines. The hydroxide ion strikes the ester bond, just like a warrior wielding a wave to break the array. The ester bond is broken, and the molecule breaks.
One part of the ethyl acetate obtains the hydroxide ion and converts into acetic acid; the other part forms ethanol. However, when acetic acid meets sodium hydroxide, acid and base meet, and change again. The hydrogen ion of acetic acid, and the hydroxide ion of sodium hydroxide, embrace each other and melt into water, and acetic acid becomes sodium salt.
Looking at this reaction, it is like a microscopic war. Molecules and atoms, each with their own abilities, follow the rules of chemistry, and deduce wonderful changes. This mystery cannot be known without careful study. The charm of chemistry can be seen here.