Question

which of the molecules below is an ester?
○ ch₃och₂ch₂ch₃
○ ch₃cooch₃
○ ch₃ch₂ch(ch₃)₂
○ ch₃cooh

Explanation:

1. Recall the ester functional group: RCOOR' (where R and R' are alkyl/aryl groups).
2. Analyze each option:

• \( \text{CH}_3\text{OCH}_2\text{CH}_2\text{CH}_3 \): Ether (R - O - R').
• \( \text{CH}_3\text{COOCH}_3 \): Has \( \text{COOCH}_3 \) (matches RCOOR' for ester).
• \( \text{CH}_3\text{CH}_2\text{CH}(\text{CH}_3)_2 \): Alkane (no functional group).
• \( \text{CH}_3\text{COOH} \): Carboxylic acid ( - COOH).

Answer:

B. \( \text{CH}_3\text{COOCH}_3 \)