Final answer:
The production of biodiesel from a triglyceride through a transesterification reaction yields ester (used as biodiesel) and glycerol as the main products.
Step-by-step explanation:
When producing biodiesel from a triglyceride, the two main products formed in the transesterification reaction are ester and glycerol. This reaction typically involves the reaction of a triglyceride with an alcohol, such as methanol. For instance, methanol (CH3OH) reacts with a triglyceride to produce biodiesel (as the ester) and glycerol (CH3 CH2OH). The esters formed are what is used as biodiesel fuel, while glycerol has various other applications, including in food, pharmaceuticals, and the cosmetic industry.
Understanding the products and the process of generating biodiesel is essential as biodiesel represents a renewable alternative to traditional petroleum diesel. It is derived primarily from plant sources such as soybeans, sunflowers, and even used vegetable oils. Biodiesel's advantages include lower emissions of pollutants like sulfur oxides, particulate matter, and carbon monoxide compared to petroleum diesel.