Carboxylic acids
What functional groups are present in a carboxylic acid, and what is its general formula?
Carboxylic acids contain a carbonyl group (C=O) and a hydroxyl group (O-H). The general formula is R-COOH, where R is a variable side chain.
Where used acetic acid?
used in the
production of plastics.
Structure of esters
Esters contain a carbonyl group and an ether linkage. These are derived from carboxylic acids. An alcohol replaces the hydroxyl group.
What are soaps made of and how are they produced?
Soaps are salts of fatty acids, produced by a process called saponification, which involves the hydrolysis of fats or oils using a strong base like NaOH or KOH.
According to IUPAC rules, how do you name a carboxylic acid derived from ethane?
Replace the “-e” in the name of the parent alkane with “-oic acid”. Ethane becomes ethanoic acid.
What is esterification and what does it produce?
Esterification is a reaction between a carboxylic acid and an alcohol. It produces esters and water, and usually requires an acid catalyst.
Properties of Esters
•Many are fragrant liquids.
•Lower molecular weight esters are soluble.
•Used as solvents and flavourings
What is the structure of a soap molecule and how does it work?
A soap molecule has a hydrophilic head, which is attracted to water, and a hydrophobic tail, which is attracted to oils and grease. This structure allows it to lift dirt and oils away, enabling cleaning.
How do electron-withdrawing groups affect the acidity of carboxylic acids?
Electron-withdrawing groups enhance the acidity of carboxylic acids by stabilizing the negative charge on the conjugate base.
How can carboxylic acids be converted to alcohols?
Carboxylic acids can be reduced to alcohols using strong reducing agents, such as lithium aluminum hydride (LiAlH₄).
What are some common examples of esters and their uses?
•Ethyl acetate is commonly used in nail polish remover.
•Isopentyl acetate has a banana-like scent and is used in flavoring and fragrances.
What are the key takeaways about esters and soaps in everyday life?
Esters give fragrances and flavors, while soaps are essential for cleanliness. Both are vital compounds that impact our daily lives and show the importance of chemistry in everyday life.