Saponification Vs Esterification
The formation of an ester takes place usually by combining acid and alcohol while releasing water, although, saponification induces the breakdown of ester bonds, which leads to the creation of fatty acid derivatives with long chains.
Example of Esterification:
C2H5OH + CH3COOH → CH3COOC2H5 + H2O
Difference between Esterification and Saponification is given below:
|
Difference between Esterification and Saponification |
|
|---|---|
|
Esterification |
Saponification |
|
It is the process that used in the formation of esters. |
It is the process that used in making soap. |
|
It reacts in the presence of strong sulfuric acid, carboxylic acid and alcohol. |
In this process, ester and aqueous alkali react. |
|
Heat is evolved |
No heat is evolved. |
|
Acid catalyst is used. |
Base catalyst is used. |
|
Water is the byproduct in this process. |
Alcohol is the byproduct in this process. |
Read More,
Saponification
Saponification word originates from the Latin word ‘Sapo,’ meaning soap. It is the general process of the creation of soap. Soaps are the sodium salt or potassium salts of a long chain carboxylic acid or glycerol which has cleansing properties in water.
Saponification refers to the interaction of an ester with water and a base like NaOH or KOH, resulting in the formation of alcohol and the sodium or potassium salt of an acid.
In this article, we will understand the meaning, definition, equation, mechanism, and examples of Saponification. This article will cover the concept of Saponification value, its effects, and its applications. We will also provide solved examples and practice questions to understand this article.
Table of Content
- What is Saponification?
- Equation for Saponification
- Mechanism of Saponification Reaction
- Saponification Value
- Significance of Saponification