Question

Write an ionic equation for the reaction of acetic acid with sodium ethoxide, and specify whether the equilibrium favors starting materials or products.

Answer 1

Acetic Acid + Sodium ethoxide ⇄ Butyric Acid + Sodium Hydroxide

Explanation:

An ionic equation for the reaction of acetic acid with sodium ethoxide is as follows -

• Reactants -

       Acetic Acid and Sodium ethanolate (sodium ethoxide)

• Products -

       Butyric Acid and Sodium hydroxide

Hence,

     Acetic Acid + Sodium ethoxide ⇄ Butyric Acid + Sodium Hydroxide

     $CH_3COOH + C_2H_5ONa$ ⇄ $CH_3COOC_2H_5 + NaOH$

• Weak acids and bases have low energy than strong acids and bases.

• The chemical equilibria shift the reaction side with the species having lower energy.

• Given reaction is an acid-base reaction in which the equilibrium favors the starting material that means it will go to the side of the weakest acid that is acetic acid is weaker than butyric acid.