What are esters?

Esters are a class of organic compounds which are commonly produced by a reaction between an alcohol and a carboxylic acid. They are characterized by a sweet, fruity smell and are often used in perfumes, flavorings, and solvents. Esters are also used in the production of plastics, resins, and surface coatings. They are formed when the hydroxyl group of an alcohol reacts with the carboxyl group of a carboxylic acid, resulting in the loss of a water molecule. The chemical structure of an ester includes a carbonyl group which is double-bonded to an oxygen atom, and a side chain or "R" group which determines the specific properties and uses of the ester.

This mind map was published on 20 May 2023 and has been viewed 65 times.