A 6.0 g sample of propanoic acid (CH₃CH₂COOH) reacts with excess methanol in the presence of concentrated H₂SO₄ to form methyl propanoate. What is the theoretical mass of methyl propanoate that can be formed? (Molar mass of propanoic acid = 74.08 g mol⁻¹; methyl propanoate = 100.12 g mol⁻¹).

Step-by-step solution

1. Compute moles of propanoic acid: $n=\frac{6.0}{74.08}=0.0809,$mol.
2. Since the esterification is 1:1, moles of methyl propanoate = 0.0809 mol.
3. Calculate mass: $m=n\times 100.12=0.0809\times 100.12=8.10,$g.
4. Thus the theoretical yield is 8.10 g.
5. No losses are assumed because quantitative conversion is stated.

Concept tested: esterification yield calculation

Published 14 September 2026 · Last updated 16 September 2026 · How this solution was prepared and checked