Zach Ferguson
Synthesis of Banana Oil
Partners: Colton Cogar and Jill Mayle
October 13, 2014 & October 20, 2014
Abstract: In this experiment an ester was prepared from a mixture of 2-methyl-2-butanol (C5H12O) and acetic acid (C2H4O2) combined with a small amount of sulfuric acid (H2SO4) as the catalyst in the reaction. The yield of the ester product was forty-four point sixty percent. The spectral analysis results included peaks at 1700 and 2900 cm-1; which indicate the presence of an ester and an alkane within the structure.
Introduction:
Figure 1a: Mechanism for Fisher Esterification.
The Fischer esterification mechanism [2] involves the process that allows the formation of an ester from an alcohol and carboxylic…show more content… Molecule: Molecular weight: Color: Phase at room temperature: Boiling Point for liquids: Melting Points for solids: Safety Data:
2-methyl-2-butanol (C5H12O)
88.148 g/mol Colorless to a pale colored liquid Liquid 101°C -
- 103 °C -9°C 2-methyl-2-butanol (tert-amyl alcohol) may cause respiratory irritation, skin irritation, and is harmful if inhaled and is highly flammable. Avoid breathing dust and fumes from this compound. [1]
Molecule: Molecular weight: Color: Phase at room temperature: Boiling Point for liquids: Melting Points for solids: Safety Data: sulfuric acid (H2SO4)
98.079 g/mol colorless Liquid 337°C 10°C sulfuric acid may be corrosive to metals. [1] acetic acid
60.05 g/mol colorless Liquid 118°C 16°C acetic acid causes skin irritation as well as, serious eye irritation. [1]
Table 2: Safety data for sulfuric acid and acetic acid.
Table 3: Safety data for sodium bicarbonate and water
Molecule: Molecular weight: Color: Phase at room temperature: Boiling Point for liquids: Melting Points for solids: Safety Data: sodium bicarbonate
(NaHCO3)
84.01 g/mol white crystals 851°C 270°C Avoid contact with skin and eyes. [1]
water