The acid shown is heated with excess ethanol and a few drops of conc. H2SO4 (Fischer esterification). Which structure is the major organic product?

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JEE Main levelSingle correct optionDifficulty 2 of 3co268

The acid shown is heated with excess ethanol and a few drops of conc. $H X_{2} SO X_{4}$ (Fischer esterification). Which structure is the major organic product?

AStructure A
BStructure B
CStructure C
DStructure D

Answer: B

The drawn compound is 3-methylbutanoic acid. Acid-catalysed condensation with ethanol gives ethyl 3-methylbutanoate (the ester) and water. The methyl ester would need methanol, the ether would need reduction, and the amide would need ethylamine.

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The acid shown is heated with excess ethanol and a few drops of conc. HX2​SOX4​ (Fischer esterification). Which structure is the major organic product?

Answer: B

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The acid shown is heated with excess ethanol and a few drops of conc. $H X_{2} SO X_{4}$ (Fischer esterification). Which structure is the major organic product?