ester

[ es-ter ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

, Chemistry.

a compound produced by the reaction between an acid and an alcohol with the elimination of a molecule of water, as ethyl acetate, C 4 H 8 O 2 , or dimethyl sulfate, C 2 H 6 SO 4 .

ester

/ ˈɛstə /

chem any of a class of compounds produced by reaction between acids and alcohols with the elimination of water. Esters with low molecular weights, such as ethyl acetate, are usually volatile fragrant liquids; fats are solid esters

ester

/ ĕs′tər /

An organic compound formed when an acid and an alcohol combine and release water. Esters formed from carboxylic acids are the most common, and have the general formula RCOOR|||PRIMARY_STRESS|||, where R and R|||PRIMARY_STRESS||| are organic radicals. Esters formed from simple hydrocarbon groups are colorless, volatile liquids with pleasant aromas and create the fragrances and flavors of many flowers and fruits. They are also used as food flavorings. Larger esters, formed from long-chain carboxylic acids, commonly occur as animal and vegetable fats, oils, and waxes. Esters have a wide range of uses in industry.

Origin of ester¹

First recorded in 1850–55; coined by L. Gmelin (1788–1853), German chemist

Origin of ester¹

C19: from German, probably a contraction of Essigäther acetic ether, from Essig vinegar (ultimately from Latin acētum ) + Äther ether

The researchers linked many parts of the molecules together with what are known as “ester groups.”

It was then thought that perhaps the oil could be converted into an ester which might be more volatile and could be distilled out.

The ester solution was then put in a vacuum desiccator over sulphuric acid and the alcohol evaporated.

A black tar-like solid was left very much like the original material, but it had the ester odor.

A mixture of the two esters melted within the limits given for the ester of gallic acid.

The ether, on evaporation, left the ester which was crystallized from water and dried in a desiccator over sulphuric acid.

April 19, 2024tortuous

[tawr-choo-uhs ]

Start each day with the Word of the Day in your inbox!

By clicking "Sign Up", you are accepting Dictionary.com Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policies.

Browse