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Carboxylic acids properties and reactions

Organic chemistry • Reactions of alkenes and alcohols

Key concepts

What you'll likely be quizzed about

  • Carboxylic acids contain the carboxyl group, denoted as -COOH or represented structurally as R-COOH, where R is a hydrocarbon chain.
  • The series follows the general molecular formula CnH2nO2 for straight-chain acids.
  • Names are assigned systematically: methanoic (one carbon), ethanoic (two carbons), propanoic (three carbons), and butanoic (four carbons).
  • Recognizing these acids involves identifying the -COOH group, which indicates a carboxylic acid.
  • Given a formula, look for the carbon double-bonded to oxygen and single-bonded to hydroxyl, confirming its status as a carboxylic acid.

Flashcards

Test your knowledge with interactive flashcards

Write the general esterification equation.

Click to reveal answer

R-COOH + R'OH ⇌ R-COOR' + H2O (this reaction is reversible).

Key notes

Important points to keep in mind

Carboxylic acids contain the -COOH functional group; general formula CnH2nO2.

First four names and formulas: methanoic (HCOOH), ethanoic (CH3COOH), propanoic (C2H5COOH), butanoic (C3H7COOH).

Dissolving in water → partial ionisation → H+ released → acidic solution (weak acid).

Reaction with carbonates → salt + CO2 + H2O; CO2 effervescence is diagnostic.

Reaction with alcohols (esterification) → ester + water; requires acid catalyst and reversible equilibrium.

Esters named alkyl + acid-oate, and often have fruity smells.

(HT) Weak-acid behaviour described by Ka and equilibrium R-COOH ⇌ R-COO− + H+.

Longer hydrocarbon chains reduce water solubility and observable acidity.

Removing water or using excess alcohol shifts esterification equilibrium toward ester formation.

Electron-withdrawing substituents near -COOH increase acidity by stabilising R-COO−.

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