Consider the Fischer ester synthesis of methyl benzoate from benzoic acid and methanol in the presence of sulfuric acid as a catalyst. A reaction was performed in which 3.3 g of benzoic acid was reacted with excess methanol to make 1.7 g of methyl benzoate. Calculate the theoretical yield and percent yield for this reaction.

46.2%

Explanation:

Number of moles benzoic acid reacts = 3.3g/122.12 g/mol = 0.027 moles

Since the reaction is 1:1, 0.027 moles of methyl benzoate is formed.

Hence;

Theoretical yield of methyl benzoate = 0.027 moles × 136.15 g/mol = 3.68 g

% yield = actual yield/theoretical yield × 100

% yield = 1.7 g/3.68 g × 100

% yield = 46.2%

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