Carboxylic acids

Carboxylic Acids

Carboxylic acids (/kɑːrˌbɒksɪˈlɪk ˈæsɪdz/) are organic compounds that contain a carboxyl group (C(=O)OH). The term 'carboxylic acid' is derived from the Latin carbo which means coal and the Greek oxy which means acid.

Structure and Properties

The general formula of a carboxylic acid is R-COOH, where R is any number of hydrogen or carbon atoms. The carboxyl group (COOH) is composed of a carbonyl group (C=O) and a hydroxyl group (OH). The presence of the carboxyl group gives carboxylic acids their acidic properties.

Classification

Carboxylic acids can be classified into two main types: aliphatic and aromatic. Aliphatic carboxylic acids have an alkyl group (R) attached to the carboxyl group, while aromatic carboxylic acids have an aryl group (Ar) attached to the carboxyl group.

Examples

Some common examples of carboxylic acids include acetic acid, formic acid, benzoic acid, and citric acid. These acids are widely used in the food, pharmaceutical, and chemical industries.

Synthesis

Carboxylic acids can be synthesized through various methods, including the oxidation of alcohols or aldehydes, the hydrolysis of nitriles, and the carboxylation of Grignard reagents.

Reactions

Carboxylic acids undergo several types of reactions, including esterification, amidation, and decarboxylation. These reactions are often used in the synthesis of various organic compounds.

Uses

Carboxylic acids are used in a wide range of applications, from the production of pharmaceuticals and polymers to the preservation of food and the manufacture of dyes and plastics.

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Carboxylic acids