Question

Which of the following carboxylic acid can be esterified most readily?

Options

• CH₃COOH

• (CH₃)₂CHCOOH

• (CH₃)₂CCOOH

• \[\begin{array}{cc}
  \ce{CH3}\phantom{....................}\\
  \backslash\phantom{...............}\\
  \phantom{...}\ce{CH - CH2COOH}\\
  /\phantom{...............}\\
  \ce{CH3}\phantom{....................}
  \end{array}\]

Answer 1

CH₃COOH

Explanation:

The esterification rate is 1°alc > 2°alc > 3°alc

As a result, CH₃COOH is the most easily esterified.