NEET Chemistry Reactions of Carboxylic Acids MCQ Question
Consider a diagram depicting the mechanism of esterification of carboxylic acids. Which step involves the conversion of the hydroxyl group into a better leaving group?

Protonation of carbonyl oxygen
Nucleophilic addition of alcohol
Proton transfer in tetrahedral intermediate
Loss of a proton from the ester
Correct Answer
Detailed Explanation
In the mechanism of esterification, the hydroxyl group is converted into a better leaving group through proton transfer in the tetrahedral intermediate, as stated in the NCERT.
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