Question

Esterification of acid chloride with ethanol is usually carried out in the presence of pyridine. The function of pyridine is

• A. To remove HCl formed in the reaction
• B. To react with acid chloride to form an acylpyridinium ion
• C. Both (a) and (b)
• D. As a catalyst

Hint:

Pyridine serves as both a base to neutralize HCl and as a nucleophile to form an acylpyridinium ion during esterification.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Role of Pyridine in Esterification.
Pyridine acts as both a base to remove HCl and a nucleophile to react with acid chloride, forming an acylpyridinium ion, which facilitates the esterification reaction.
Step 2: Conclusion.
The correct answer is (C), both (a) and (b).