Chemical Formula Ethyl Acetate

Chemical Formula for Ethyl Acetate

Ethyl acetate is an organic compound commonly used as a solvent in various chemical processes. It is a clear, colorless liquid with a sweet smell, often found in nail polish removers, glues, and paints. The chemical formula of ethyl acetate can be represented as:

1. Ethyl Acetate Formula

The molecular formula of ethyl acetate is:

C₄H₈O₂

This represents that ethyl acetate is composed of 4 carbon atoms, 8 hydrogen atoms, and 2 oxygen atoms. The structural formula can be written as:

CH₃COOCH₂CH₃

In this structure, an ester functional group (-COO) connects an ethyl group (CH₃CH₂) and an acetate group (CH₃CO).

2. Properties of Ethyl Acetate

Ethyl acetate has several important properties, including:

Molecular Weight: 88.11 g/mol
Boiling Point: 77°C (171°F)
Density: 0.902 g/cm³
Solubility: Slightly soluble in water, but highly soluble in organic solvents like ethanol and acetone.

3. Example of Synthesis of Ethyl Acetate

Ethyl acetate is typically synthesized through a chemical reaction known as esterification, where an alcohol reacts with an acid. One common method of synthesizing ethyl acetate is by reacting ethanol (CH₃CH₂OH) with acetic acid (CH₃COOH). The reaction is catalyzed by an acid (like sulfuric acid) and proceeds as follows:

CH₃CH₂OH + CH₃COOH → CH₃COOCH₂CH₃ + H₂O

This reaction produces ethyl acetate and water as byproducts.

4. Uses of Ethyl Acetate

Ethyl acetate is a versatile solvent with several practical applications, including:

Solvent in Paints and Coatings: Due to its fast evaporation rate, it is often used in paints and varnishes.
Nail Polish Remover: It helps dissolve the components of nail polish for easy removal.
Flavoring Agent: It is used in the food industry as a flavor enhancer, especially in confectionery and fruit products.
Laboratory Solvent: Frequently used in chromatography and extraction processes.

Conclusion

Ethyl acetate (C₄H₈O₂) is an essential organic solvent with widespread industrial and laboratory uses. Its synthesis from ethanol and acetic acid makes it a valuable compound in chemical applications, and its chemical properties contribute to its versatility in numerous fields.