Question

The compound with the formula $C_2(H_{2}O{)}_2$ would be a

• A. Carbohydrate
• B. Carboxylic acid
• C. Aldehyde
• D. Monosaccharide

Answer 1

The correct option is B Carboxylic acid

This compound is acetic acid $\left(C{H}_{3}COOH\right)$. Even though it has general formula $C_x(H_{2}O{)}_y$ of carbohydrates, it is not one. To be a carbohydrate, one molecule must have atleast three carbon atoms in the chain with satisfying definition of carbohydrates, i.e. it must be optically active, polyhydroxy aldehyde or ketone or should give such units on hydrolysis.
Hence, (b) is correct.