Q1. CH3COOC2H5 + H2O -> CH3COOH + C2H5OH In the above reaction, which compound is the autocatalyst?
A CH3COOC2H5
B H2O
C CH3COOH Correct
D C2H5OH
Explanation
In the hydrolysis of ethyl acetate, acetic acid is formed as a product and it also increases the rate of the reaction by supplying hydrogen ions. A catalyst produced during the reaction itself is called an autocatalyst, so CH3COOH fits the definition. CH3COOC2H5 is the ester reactant being hydrolysed, not the catalyst. H2O participates as a reactant in hydrolysis, so it is not the product-catalyst. C2H5OH is ethanol, another product, but it does not catalyse this reaction in the same way.