Carboxylic Acids Cheat Sheet

Key Definitions

• Carboxylic Acid: Organic compound with the functional group -COOH (e.g., acetic acid).

• Dicarboxylic Acid: Contains two carboxyl groups (e.g., oxalic acid).

Important Concepts

Nomenclature

• Named by replacing the -e of the alkane with -oic acid.

• Example: Ethane → Ethanoic Acid.

Reactions

• Formation:

• Oxidation of alcohols: R-CH2OH → R-COOH

• Decarboxylation:

• Removal of CO₂ from carboxylic acids.

• Esterification:

• Reaction with alcohols to form esters:

• R-COOH + R'-OH → R-COOR' + H₂O

Physical Properties

• Higher boiling points than alkanes due to hydrogen bonding.

• Solubility decreases with increasing carbon chain length.

Key Formulas

• General Formula: C_nH_(2n+1)COOH

• n: number of carbon atoms in the alkyl group.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Common Mistake: Confusing carboxylic acids with alcohols; remember the -COOH group!

Memory Tricks

Tip: "CATS" — Carboxyl, Acidity, Taste (sour), Solubility (in water).

Key Diagrams

 Carboxylic Acid Structure
      O
      ||
 R—C—OH