Question

Which of the following can act as catalyst in esterification process?

(a) Sulphuric acid

(b) Hydrochloric acid

(c) Both H2SO4 and HCl

(d) None of the mentioned

I have been asked this question by my school principal while I was bunking the class.

My question is based upon Catalystic Esterification in division Esterification of Unit Processes

Answer 1

Right answer is (c) Both H2SO4 and HCl

For explanation I would say: In general practice, hydrochloric and sulfuric acids are the catalysts most commonly used, the former being in favour in the laboratory because of its efficiency and the latter in the plant because of its cheapness and lower corrosive effect on metals.