Provide an example of the nucleophilic substitution of different esters.

Nucleophilic substitution is a reaction in which a nucleophile replaces a leaving group in a molecule.

Esters can undergo nucleophilic substitution reactions, where the ester group is replaced by a nucleophile. For example, when an ester is treated with a strong nucleophile, such as hydroxide ion (OH-), the ester undergoes hydrolysis to form a carboxylic acid and an alcohol. This reaction is called saponification and is used in the production of soap.

Another example of nucleophilic substitution of esters is the reaction with ammonia or primary amines to form amides. This reaction is called amidation and is used in the synthesis of peptides and proteins.

Esters can also undergo nucleophilic substitution with alcohols to form different esters. This reaction is called transesterification and is used in the production of biodiesel.

In summary, esters can undergo nucleophilic substitution reactions with various nucleophiles to form different compounds. These reactions have important applications in the production of soap, peptides, proteins, and biodiesel.