On the reaction between sodium hydroxide and ethyl acetate
, there is something in it. It is called sodium hydroxide ($NaOH $) and ethyl acetate ($CH_3COOC_2H_5 $). When the two meet, it is a wonderful reaction.

Sodium hydroxide is active and can dissociate hydroxide ions ($OH ^ - $) in water, which is strongly alkaline. Ethyl acetate is a genus of esters and has unique structures and properties.

When the two meet, hydroxide ions are like brave men, attacking the carbonyl of ethyl acetate ($C = O $). Although the carbonyl of ethyl acetate is stable, it is difficult to resist the attack of hydroxide. As a result, the double bond of the carbonyl group changes slightly, the oxygen atom temporarily gains a negative charge, and the ethoxy group ($OC_2H_5 $) connected to the carbonyl group gradually leaves.

Russia, the ethoxy group leaves, combines with the hydrogen atom carried by the hydroxyl ion, and then forms ethanol ($C_2H_5OH $). The part connected to the carbonyl group, due to the oxygen atom of the hydroxyl group, forms the acetate ion ($CH_3COO ^ - $), which is matched with the sodium ion ($Na ^ + $) in the solution to form sodium acetate ($CH_3COONa $).

Looking at this reaction, it is a wonderful example of chemical change. Sodium hydroxide and ethyl acetate have different properties, but when they meet, they interact, breaking old bonds and forming new bonds, resulting in ethanol and sodium acetate. This reaction is not unique to laboratory vessels, but also exists in many industrial production and natural changes. Our research shows that the laws of material change and the mysteries of the chemical world can facilitate production and life, and benefit mankind.