The specific conditions that favor ester hydrolysis involve the presence of either acidic or basic catalysts, along with suitable temperature. Acid-catalyzed hydrolysis typically requires the addition of a strong acid, such as sulfuric acid (H2SO4), while basic hydrolysis, known as saponification, involves the use of an alkali, commonly sodium hydroxide (NaOH). The reaction is often performed under elevated temperatures to accelerate the hydrolysis process. The combination of the catalyst and elevated temperature promotes nucleophilic attack of water or alkoxide ion on the ester, resulting in the cleavage of the ester bond and formation of carboxylic acids (under acidic conditions) or carboxylate salts (under basic conditions).