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Multiple Choice
In the context of organic chemistry reactions, why is water required for the hydrolysis of esters?
A
Water stabilizes the transition state by forming hydrogen bonds.
B
Water acts as a nucleophile, attacking the carbonyl carbon of the ester.
C
Water acts as a catalyst, speeding up the reaction without being consumed.
D
Water provides the necessary acidic environment for the reaction.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of hydrolysis: Hydrolysis is a chemical reaction involving the breaking of a bond in a molecule using water. In the case of esters, hydrolysis results in the formation of an alcohol and a carboxylic acid.
Identify the role of water in the reaction: Water acts as a nucleophile in the hydrolysis of esters. A nucleophile is a chemical species that donates an electron pair to form a chemical bond in relation to a reaction.
Examine the mechanism of ester hydrolysis: The oxygen atom in the water molecule has lone pairs that can attack the electrophilic carbonyl carbon of the ester, leading to the formation of a tetrahedral intermediate.
Consider the transition state stabilization: While water can form hydrogen bonds, its primary role in ester hydrolysis is as a nucleophile rather than stabilizing the transition state.
Clarify the misconception about water as a catalyst: Water is not acting as a catalyst in this reaction; it is consumed as a reactant, participating directly in the chemical transformation.