11.2 Reactions of Carboxylic Acids

11.2 Reactions of Carboxylic Acids

The carboxyl group shows the chemistry of both the carbonyl ( ) and the hydroxyl (- OH) groups. In most reactions, the carboxyl group is retained. However, the reactivity of these molecules is due to the presence of the carbonyl group. Carboxylic acids undergo the following types of reactions.

1. Reaction involving H-atom of the carboxyl group (Acidic properties of Carboxylic acid)

Carboxylic acids are weaker acids than mineral acids. They produce H+ ion when dissolved in water

(a) Reactions with bases

Carboxylic acids react with strong bases (NaOH,KOH) to form salts

Acetic acid Sodium Acetate

(b) Reaction with carbonates and bicarbonates

Carboxylic acids decompose carbonate and bicarbonates evolving carbon dioxide gas with effervescence.