The hydrolysis of esters in base is called ________.

A) the Fischer esterification
B) the Hunsdiecker reaction
C) the Dieckmann condensation
D) transesterification
E) saponification

The process of hydrolyzing esters in base is called saponification, which involves the breaking of an ester bond in the presence of a strong base to form a carboxylate ion and an alcohol. Choice A, the Fischer esterification, is the process of forming an ester from a carboxylic acid and an alcohol in the presence of an acid catalyst. Choice B, the Hunsdiecker reaction, is a reaction that converts a carboxylic acid into a halide using a halogen and silver salt. Choice C, the Dieckmann condensation, is a reaction that involves the intramolecular esterification of a dicarboxylic acid to form a cyclic β-ketoester. Choice D, transesterification, is the process of exchanging an ester's alkoxy group with another alcohol group, typically in the presence of an acid or base catalyst.