Carboxylic Acids and Esters

Carboxylic acids are able to dissolve in water to produce solutions with a pH value of less than 7, making them acidic. Their properties are similar to those of other acids and when added to carbonates, salt, water and carbon dioxide is produced so a fizz occurs. 

Carboxylic acids react with alcohols when an acid catalyst is present and produce esters. Esters are volatile compounds - this means that they readily evaporate because they have a low boiling point. Esters are generally used in perfumes and food…