Question

What are carboxylic acids? Mention its properties and uses?

Answer 1

Part 1: Carboxylic acids

• Carbon compounds containing a carboxyl functional group$\left(–\mathrm{COOH}\right)$ are known as carboxylic acids.
• The carboxyl group is made up of a carbonyl group and a hydroxyl group.

Part 2: Properties of carboxylic acid

• Carboxylic acid participates in hydrogen bonding due to the presence of the carbonyl group, $\left(\mathrm{C}=\mathrm{O}\right)$ and the hydroxyl group$(-\mathrm{OH})$. So, they are higher boiling liquids as compared to aldehyde and ketones.
• Simple aliphatic carboxylic acids with up to four carbon atoms are miscible in water due to the formation of hydrogen bonding with water.

• At room temperature, aliphatic carboxylic acids with up to nine carbon atoms are colorless liquids with unpleasant odors.
• Carboxylic acids are also soluble in less polar organic solvents such as chloroform, ether, benzene, and alcohol.

Part 3: Uses of carboxylic acid

• Carboxylic acids are used to make a variety of essential organic compounds, including anhydrides, esters, acid chlorides, and amides.
• In the rubber, textile, and leather industries, carboxylic acids are used extensively.