There are several ways in which the percent yield could be improved, considering that Le Chatelier's principle and that esterification is a reversible reaction. Esterification is an exothermic reaction and as a result by lowering the temperature during the reflux steps, the reaction will move forward and will produce more ester in the product. Another way to increase the percent yield would be to use a stronger acid than sulfuric acid so that the ester will form faster and water will be removed at a faster rate.
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