ORGANIC CHEMISTRY A  B  C  D  E  F  G  H  I  J  K  L  M  N  O  P  Q  R  S  T  U  V  W  X  Y  Z                    HOME ABOUT CATEGORIES SITE MAP COPYRIGHT ADVERTISE CONTACT entire Web this site ester An organic compound formed by reaction between an alcohol and an acid. Esters formed from carboxylic acids have the general formula RCOOR'. Examples include ethyl ethanoate (CH3COOC2H5) and methyl propanoate (C2H5COOCH3). Esters containing simple hydrocarbon groups are volatile, fragrant substances used as flavorings in the food industry. Triesters, molecules containing three ester groups, occur in nature as oils and fats (see triglyceride). Related category    • ORGANIC CHEMISTRY Also on this site: Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy & Sustainable Living Encyclopedia of History Transport Concepts & Designs (partner site) BACK TO TOP