Carboxylic Acids

Question 1

Describe carboxylic acids

Answer 1

They are like alcohols (have an OH), but also have a double bond

Question 2

How can carboxylic acids be easily identified?

Answer 2

They always have COOH at the end (or maybe a COO)

Question 3

What is the general formula?

Answer 3

C(n)H(2n+1)COOH

Question 4

How are they named?

Answer 4

Have a suffix of -oic acid

Question 5

Are carboxylic acids polar or non-polar, and why?

Answer 5

The COOH end of the molecule is highly polar which makes the molecule polar overall

Question 6

Describe the physical properties of carboxylic acids

Answer 6

• The polarity results in strong attractions between molecules
• Low molecular masses = water soluble liquids
• High molecular masses = water insoluble solids
• High melting and boiling points due to intermolecular attractions
• Non-conductors when liquid
• Conductors when aqueous (moderately weak electrolytes)

Question 7

How can an ester be created?

Answer 7

By combining an alcohol and carboxylic acid

Question 8

Are carboxylic acids proton acceptors or donors?

Answer 8

Proton donors

Question 9

What is ionisation?

Answer 9

The process of the ions breaking up from the acid. As the ions leave, it’s said that they dissociate from the compound

Question 10

What ions will always be there in reactions?

Answer 10

COO^- and H^+

Question 11

What is partial ionisation and when does it occur?

Answer 11

In weak acids, it will only partially react

Question 12

What are the three template equations for acid + ___ → __ + ___ (+ ___)?

Answer 12

Acid + Base → Salt + Water
Acid + Metal → Salt + Hydrogen gas
Acid + Carbonate → Salt + Water + Carbon dioxide