What type of reaction occurs when an alcohol reacts with a carboxylic acid?

When an alcohol reacts with a carboxylic acid, the primary type of reaction that occurs is esterification. During this process, the hydroxyl group (-OH) from the carboxylic acid and a hydrogen atom from the alcohol combine to form water (H₂O), and the remaining parts of the alcohol and carboxylic acid bond to form an ester. This reaction is characterized by the formation of a new functional group—specifically an ester functional group, which is denoted by the general structure RCOOR', where R is the carbon chain from the carboxylic acid and R' is from the alcohol.

Esterification is a vital reaction in organic chemistry because it is responsible for the formation of many natural and synthetic compounds, including fats and oils. The reaction can be catalyzed by an acid, making it easier for the alcohol and carboxylic acid to combine. The reverse reaction, where an ester reacts with water to form the original alcohol and carboxylic acid, is known as hydrolysis. However, in the context of the initial reaction presented, esterification is the key process that leads to the formation of an ester.