Question

identify the correct statement about base hydrolysis of esters.
select all that are true.
select all that apply:
the reactions are irreversible.
the reactions are reversible.
the process is saponification.
none of the above

Explanation:

• Base hydrolysis of esters is irreversible because the carboxylate ion formed (from the acid part of the ester) is resonance - stabilized and less reactive. In acid - catalyzed hydrolysis, the reaction is reversible as the carboxylic acid can protonate and re - form the ester.
• Saponification is the specific term for the base - catalyzed hydrolysis of esters (especially of fatty acid esters to form soaps). For example, when a triglyceride (an ester of glycerol and fatty acids) undergoes base hydrolysis, it forms glycerol and fatty acid salts (soaps).

Answer:

• The reactions are irreversible.
• The process is saponification.