Final answer:
The presence of esters, which are compounds created by the reaction of carboxylic acids with alcohols, is commonly associated with the pleasant odors of fruit flavorings.
Step-by-step explanation:
The pleasant, characteristic odor of fruit flavorings is often associated with the presence of esters. These compounds result from a reaction between a carboxylic acid and an alcohol. Unlike carboxylic acids and aldehydes, esters do not have hydrogen bonds between molecules, which gives them lower vapor pressures. This contributes to their distinct, often fruity odors that are widely recognized in ripe bananas and other fruits. In addition, esters are responsible for the odors of many plants and are used in artificial flavorings due to their pleasant smells and tastes.