How would you synthesize the following esters? a. \(n\) -octylacetate

To synthesize n-octyl acetate, we will perform an esterification reaction between acetic acid and 1-octanol in the presence of a strong acid catalyst. Here are the steps to synthesize n-octyl acetate: Step 1: Identify the reactants The reactants for this synthesis are acetic acid and 1-octanol. Acetic acid has the formula CH₃COOH and 1-octanol has the formula C₈H₁₇OH. Step 2: Write the esterification reaction The esterification reaction between acetic acid and 1-octanol can be written as: CH₃COOH + C₈H₁₇OH ⟶ CH₃COOC₈H₁₇ + H₂O Where CH₃COOC₈H₁₇ is n-octyl acetate and H₂O is water, which is a byproduct of the reaction. Step 3: Choose an acid catalyst An acid catalyst is required to speed up the esterification reaction. Typically, concentrated sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) is used as the catalyst. Step 4: Set up the reaction apparatus Prepare a round-bottom flask equipped with reflux condenser, thermometer, and magnetic stirrer. Add acetic acid, 1-octanol, and a few drops of concentrated H₂SO₄ into the flask. Mix the reactants properly. Step 5: Heat the reaction mixture Heat the reaction mixture under reflux (around 140-150 °C) for several hours (4-5 hours). This ensures that the esterification reaction reaches equilibrium. Step 6: Cool and separate the product After the reaction is complete, cool down the reaction mixture to room temperature. Separate the ester layer from the aqueous (water) layer using a separatory funnel. Step 7: Purify the ester Wash the ester layer with water and a saturated solution of sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO₃) to remove any residual acid, followed by drying it over anhydrous sodium sulfate (Na₂SO₄). Finally, remove the solvent using a rotary evaporator to obtain the purified n-octyl acetate. After following these steps, n-octyl acetate should be synthesized successfully through esterification reaction between acetic acid and 1-octanol.