Provide an example of a lactone and an ester.

A lactone is a cyclic ester, such as gamma-butyrolactone. An example of an ester is ethyl acetate.

Lactones are a type of organic compound that contain a cyclic ester group. This means that the molecule has a ring structure with an oxygen atom and a carbonyl group (C=O) within the ring. One example of a lactone is gamma-butyrolactone, which is commonly used as a solvent and in the production of various chemicals. Lactones can also be found in nature, such as in the structure of some antibiotics and hormones.

Esters are another type of organic compound that contain a carbonyl group (C=O) bonded to an oxygen atom, which is also bonded to an alkyl or aryl group. One example of an ester is ethyl acetate, which is commonly used as a solvent and in the production of various chemicals, including fragrances and flavours. Esters can also be found in nature, such as in the structure of some fats and oils.

Both lactones and esters are important in organic chemistry and have a wide range of applications in industry and in nature. Understanding their structures and properties is important for A-Level Biology students studying organic chemistry.