Naming: Esters can be thought of as combinations of alcohols and acids. They are named with two words. The first word reflects the alcohol, and the second the acid. The suffix "oate" (pronounced "oh' "ate") is added.

Forming Esters:

Alcohols and acids react to form esters:

R₁CH₂OH + R₂COOH ---> R₂COOR₁ + H₂O

Reactions of Acids:

Esters hydrolyze to form acids and alcohols.

R₂COOR₁ + OH^- --> R₁CH₂OH + R₂COO^-

The Claisen condensation is an example of an important synthetic organic reaction.

General:

Fats are examples of esters.