Carboxílics

Carboxílics, also known as carboxylic acids, are a class of organic compounds that contain a carboxyl group (-COOH). This functional group consists of a carbonyl group (C=O) adjacent to a hydroxyl group (-OH). Carboxylic acids are characterized by their acidic properties due to the presence of the carboxyl group, which can donate a proton (H+) in solution.

Carboxylic acids can be classified based on the number of carboxyl groups they contain. Monocarboxylic acids have one carboxyl group, while polycarboxylic acids have more than one. Examples of monocarboxylic acids include formic acid (HCOOH), acetic acid (CH3COOH), and benzoic acid (C6H5COOH). Polycarboxylic acids include substances like malonic acid (HOOC-CH2-COOH) and citric acid (HOOC-CH2-CH(OH)-COOH).

Carboxylic acids are widely used in various industries. They are important in the production of plastics, synthetic fibers, and pharmaceuticals. In the food industry, they are used as preservatives and flavor enhancers. Additionally, carboxylic acids play a crucial role in biological systems, serving as intermediates in metabolic pathways and contributing to the structure and function of biomolecules like proteins and nucleic acids.