Oxidation of Diethyl Malate by Chromic Acid and Relative Rates of Oxidation of Malic Acid and the Ester

The kinetics of the initial stages of oxidation of diethyl malate by chromic acid have been studied. The rate is proportional to the concentrations of HCrO₄^-, ester and hydrogen ions. The thermodynamio parameters have been evaluated. The main product of oxidation is oxalacetic acid ester. The rate of oxidation of malic acid and its ester have been compared. The slow rate of oxidation for ester has been explained on the basis of inductive effect and steric effect.