Carboxylic definitions
| Word backwards | cilyxobrac |
|---|---|
| Part of speech | Adjective |
| Syllabic division | car-box-y-lic |
| Plural | The plural form of the word "carboxylic" is "carboxylics." |
| Total letters | 10 |
| Vogais (3) | a,o,i |
| Consonants (6) | c,r,b,x,y,l |
Carboxylic acids are a group of organic compounds that contain a carboxyl functional group, which consists of a carbon atom double-bonded to an oxygen atom and single-bonded to a hydroxyl group (-COOH). This functional group is responsible for the acidic properties of carboxylic acids.
Structure
The general formula for carboxylic acids is R-COOH, where R represents an alkyl or aryl group. The carbon of the carboxyl group is sp2 hybridized, giving it a planar structure. The presence of the highly electronegative oxygen atom in the carboxyl group results in a polar molecule with a significant dipole moment.
Properties
Carboxylic acids are weak acids that can donate a proton to a base. They have higher boiling points compared to hydrocarbons of similar molecular weight due to intermolecular hydrogen bonding between the carboxylic acid molecules. Carboxylic acids are also soluble in polar solvents like water but tend to form hydrogen bonds with themselves, resulting in decreased solubility as the carbon chain length increases.
Uses
Carboxylic acids have a wide range of applications in various industries. They are commonly used in the production of pharmaceuticals, flavors, and fragrances. Acetic acid, a simple carboxylic acid, is used as a solvent in the chemical industry and as a preservative in the food industry. Higher carboxylic acids are used in the production of polymers like nylon.
Overall, carboxylic acids play a crucial role in organic chemistry and have diverse applications in different fields due to their unique properties and versatile reactivity.
Carboxylic Examples
- The carboxylic group in organic chemistry is characterized by a carbon atom double bonded to an oxygen atom and single bonded to a hydroxyl group.
- Carboxylic acids are commonly used in the production of pharmaceuticals due to their acidic properties.
- The carboxylic acid found in vinegar is what gives it its sour taste and pungent smell.
- One example of a carboxylic acid is citric acid, which is found in citrus fruits like lemons and oranges.
- The carboxylic group plays a crucial role in the formation of peptide bonds in proteins.
- Aspirin, also known as acetylsalicylic acid, is a common pain reliever that contains a carboxylic acid functional group.
- In biochemistry, carboxylic acids are important building blocks for the synthesis of fatty acids and lipids.
- The carboxylic acid group can be easily converted into other functional groups through chemical reactions.
- A carboxylic acid derivative, such as an ester or an amide, can be formed by reacting a carboxylic acid with another compound.
- The carboxylic acid present in butyric acid is responsible for its distinctive smell, resembling rancid butter.