Ethyl acetate has a unique functional group structure. Its main functional group is the ester group (− COO −), which endows ethyl acetate with special chemical and physical properties. The

ester group determines the activity and reaction path of ethyl acetate in organic chemical reactions. In the hydrolysis reaction, under the attack of water molecules, the carbon and oxygen double bonds of the ester group are broken, and the corresponding carboxylic acids and alcohols are formed. Taking hydrolysis under acidic conditions as an example, ethyl acetate and water are gradually decomposed into acetic acid and ethanol under the catalysis of hydrogen ions. This reaction is reversible. According to the principle of chemical equilibrium, the reaction direction can be regulated by controlling the concentration of reactants and products.

Under alkaline conditions, the hydrolysis reaction is more thorough. Ethyl acetate reacts with bases (such as sodium hydroxide) to form acetates and alcohols. Due to the neutralization reaction between the base and the generated acid, the balance shifts towards hydrolysis.

In terms of physical properties, the presence of ester groups makes ethyl acetate have a low boiling point and good solubility. It can be widely used as an organic solvent in coatings, inks and other industries. With its solubility, it can dissolve a variety of organic substances and realize the dispersion and mixing of substances. Due to these characteristics endowed by ester groups, ethyl acetate occupies an important position in the field of organic synthesis and industrial production, and has become a key raw material and practical solvent for many chemical reactions.