Which of the following represents the saponification reaction?
(a) $CH_3COONa + NaOH → CH_4 + Na_2CO_3$
(b) $CH_3COOH + C_2H_5OH → CH_3COOC_2H_5 +H_2O$
(c) $2CH_3COOH + 2Na → 2CH_3COONa + H_2$
(d)$CH_3COOC_2H_5 + NaOH → CH_3COONa + C_2 H_5OH$

Correct Answer: (d) $CH_3COOC_2H_5 + NaOH → CH_3COONa + C_2 H_5OH$

Explanation: Saponification is a reaction in which ethanol and sodium ethanoate are produced upon treatment of ester with an alkali.