Carboxylic acids are a class of organic compounds that are known for containing a carboxyl group
(-COOH). This group, comprising a carbonyl (
C=O
) and a hydroxyl (
-OH
) group, is what gives the carboxylic acids their distinctive acidity.
The acidic nature of carboxylic acids allows them to donate a proton (
H^+
) from their carboxyl group. This behavior is the primary reason behind many chemical reactions they undergo.
- Strong Hydrogen Bonds: Carboxylic acids form strong hydrogen bonds. These bonds can occur not only with water but also with themselves, leading to dimer formation.
- Acid-Base Reactions: They react with bases like sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and sodium bicarbonate (
NaHCO_3
), forming salts.
- Presence in Nature: Carboxylic acids are widespread in nature. For example, citric acid in citrus fruits and acetic acid in vinegar.
Their
solubility
in
aqueous
NaHCO_3
solutions is due to this acidic character. When they react with
NaHCO_3,
carbon dioxide (
CO_2
) is released, which is a classic indicator of this reaction.