Question

Which of the following is used in perfumery?

• A. Esters of benzoic acid
• B. Ethanoic acid
• C. Methanol
• D. Formaldehyde

Hint:

Perfumery Compounds:
1. Esters provide fruity/floral notes
2. Benzoates are base notes in fragrance pyramids
3. Natural sources include jasmine and tuberose

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

1. Benzoate esters are widely used in perfumery due to their:
- Pleasant floral/fruity aromas
- Chemical stability
- Occurrence in natural essential oils
2. Common examples:
- Methyl benzoate - ylang-ylang-like scent
- Ethyl benzoate - sweet wintergreen odor
- Benzyl benzoate - balsamic fragrance
3. Other options are unsuitable:
- Ethanoic acid (vinegar smell)
- Methanol (toxic)
- Formaldehyde (irritating)
Thus, the correct answer is $\boxed{1}$.

Answer 2

Step 1: Understand the role of aromatic compounds in perfumery.
Perfumes are formulated using compounds that emit pleasant and lasting fragrances. These compounds often belong to specific chemical families known for their distinctive and appealing smells.

Step 2: Why esters are important in perfumery.
Esters are organic compounds formed by the reaction between acids and alcohols. Many esters have sweet, fruity, and floral aromas that make them ideal for use in perfumes and flavorings.
Their volatility and pleasant scent profiles make esters particularly valuable in creating the desired fragrance effects.

Step 3: Specific use of benzoic acid esters.
Benzoic acid esters, such as benzyl acetate and methyl benzoate, are esters derived from benzoic acid.
These esters are known for their floral, sweet, and slightly spicy fragrances, often reminiscent of jasmine or gardenia.
Due to their appealing smell and good stability, these esters are widely used as fragrance ingredients in perfumery.

Step 4: Comparison with other compounds.
While other aromatic compounds like aldehydes, ketones, and alcohols are also used in perfumes, esters of benzoic acid hold a unique position because of their specific scent characteristics and versatility.

Step 5: Conclusion.
Hence, the esters of benzoic acid are preferred in perfumery due to their sweet and floral aromas, making them essential ingredients in many fragrance formulations.