Carboxylic acids are a group of organic compounds that contain a special functional group called the carboxyl group. This group is made up of a carbon atom double-bonded to an oxygen atom and also bonded to a hydroxyl group.
Key Features:
- They are weak acids, meaning they can release a hydrogen ion in solution.
- They often have sharp, sour smells (like vinegar).
- Smaller carboxylic acids dissolve easily in water, while larger ones are less soluble.
- Their names usually end with “oic acid” in systematic naming.
Common Examples:
- Formic acid – found in ant stings.
- Acetic acid – the main acid in vinegar.
- Benzoic acid – used as a food preservative.
- Oxalic acid – present in spinach and some vegetables.
Importance:
Carboxylic acids are widely used in making medicines, food preservatives, plastics, and solvents. They also occur naturally in living organisms, such as in fatty acids that make up oils and fats, and in amino acids that build proteins.