Synthesis of Isoamyl Acetate

2022-03-21

Synthesis of Isoamyl Acetate

In this experiment, isoamyl acetate was synthesized via an acid-catalyzed Fischer esterification reaction between isoamyl alcohol and acetic acid, using sulfuric acid as a catalyst. The ester was then purified through a series of extractions and distillation.

Isoamyl alcohol (C₅H₁₂O) and acetic acid (CH₃COOH) react to form isoamyl acetate (C₇H₁₄O₂) and water.

The theoretical yield was calculated based on the limiting reagent (isoamyl alcohol):

$$\text{Isoamyl alcohol:} \frac{12 \, \text{mL} \times 0.8104 \, \text{g/mL}}{88.15 \, \text{g/mol}} = 0.110 \, \text{mol}$$ $$\text{Acetic acid:} \frac{16 \, \text{mL} \times 1.049 \, \text{g/mL}}{60.05 \, \text{g/mol}} = 0.280 \, \text{mol}$$

Maximum yield of isoamyl acetate:

$$130.19 \, \text{g/mol} \times 0.110 \, \text{mol} = 14.321 \, \text{g}$$

Experimental yield:

$$\text{Weight of isoamyl acetate:} 67.33 \, \text{g (flask + product)} - 58.64 \, \text{g (empty flask)} = 8.69 \, \text{g}$$ $$\text{Percentage yield:} \frac{8.69}{14.321} \times 100\% = 60.68\%$$

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