Carboxylic acids, esters and polymers Flashcards
What is a carboxylic acid?
An organic compound that contains a carboxyl group
What is the general formula for carboxylic acid?
CnH2n+1COOH.
What do they do in water?
Partially ionise
What is produced when carboxylic acids react with alcohols?
When carboxylic acids and alcohols react together (using an acid catalyst), an ester and water are produced:
E.g. Ethanoic acid + ethanol → ethyl ethanoate + water
What is the functional group of an ester?
-COO
Why are esters useful?
Because they have fruity smells
Why do esters smells travel quickly?
they are volatile
What esters often used for?
perfumes
What substance is used as a catalyst when making ethyl ethanoate?
sulfuric acid
What are polymers held together by?
Strong covalent bonds between atoms in molecules.
Weak intermolecular forces between molecules.
Why do polymers melt easily?
because the intermolecular forces remain less strong than chemical bonds.
What state are polymers usually?
solid
What is addition polymerisatioon?
the joining of short-chain monomers to produce one long-chain polymer.
What is poly(chlorethene) also known as?
PVC
What is the name of the biodegradable polymer?
biopolyester
