The reaction of carboxylic acid with alcohol forms an ester. This process of formation of ester is called esterification.
Activity :
(i) Take 1‌ml of ethanol and 1‌ml of glacial acetic acid in a boiling tube and mix the contents well.
(ii) Add few drops of conc. H2SO4 to it.
(iii) Warm the contents on a water bath for a few minutes.
(iv) Now pour the solution in a beaker containing 20−50‌mL of water.
(v) A sweet fruity smell indicating formation of an ester is observed.