The Fischer esterification mechanism is examined in this question. The overall reaction is: Benzoic acid, C H 3 O H and H C l re
act to form a methyl ester, H 2 O and H C l. Benzoic acid is a carboxylic acid bonded to a benzene ring. Identify the results or mechanism of each step.
Fischer esterification is a type of reaction used to convert carboxylic acids to ester in the presence of excess alcohol and a strong acid which acts as a catalyst. Another final product formed in the reaction is water.
The mechanism for the fischer esterification of Benzoic acid and C H 3 O H in the presence of HCl as the catalyst is shown in the image attached to this answer.
The final products of the reaction are methyl benzoate, water and H^+ as shown in the image attached.