why-is-protonation-crucial-in-the-conversion-of-esters-to-carboxylic-acids-in-an

Question

Why is protonation crucial in the conversion of esters to carboxylic acids in an acid-catalyzed reaction?

Accepted Answer

It makes the carbonyl carbon more susceptible to nucleophilic attack.

Answer

It stabilizes the ester by forming a salt.

Answer

It directly cleaves the ester bond.

Answer

It prevents the formation of water byproduct.