Chapter 20: Hydrolysis of Esters and Amides

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to the hydrolysis of esters, the process of saponification, the nature of fats and oils, and the hydrolysis of amides.

Saponification

The process of hydrolysis of esters under basic conditions, typically resulting in soap formation.

Hydrolysis

The chemical process of breaking down a compound by reaction with water.

Ester

A compound derived from an acid (usually a carboxylic acid) and an alcohol, characterized by the functional group -COOR.

Carboxylate

The deprotonated form of a carboxylic acid, denoted as RCOO-.

Triglyceride

An ester derived from glycerol and three fatty acids, commonly found in fats and oils.

Unsaturated fats

Fats that contain one or more double bonds between carbon atoms, remaining liquid at room temperature.

Saturated fats

Fats that have no double bonds between carbon atoms, typically solid at room temperature.

Trans fats

Unsaturated fats that are hydrogenated to become solid, having trans configurations which are less desirable in diets.

Omega-3 fatty acids

A type of unsaturated fatty acid with the first double bond three carbons away from the omega end.

Cell membrane

A biological membrane that separates and protects cells; composed largely of phospholipids, which often include fatty acids.

Amide

A compound derived from a carboxylic acid and an amine, characterized by the functional group -C(O)NR₂.

Mechanism of ester hydrolysis

A sequence of steps including nucleophilic attack, proton transfers, and elimination to break down an ester into carboxylic acid and alcohol.

Reverse Fischer esterification

The process of hydrolyzing an ester back into its original carboxylic acid and alcohol.

Hydrophilic end of soap

The portion of a soap molecule that is attracted to water, facilitating its ability to dissolve in water.

Hydrophobic end of soap

The portion of a soap molecule that repels water and is attracted to grease, allowing it to dissolve oily substances.