Karboksüülhapeks

Karboksüülhapeks is the Estonian term for carboxylic acids. Carboxylic acids are organic compounds that contain at least one carboxyl functional group, which is a combination of a carbonyl group (C=O) and a hydroxyl group (-OH) attached to the same carbon atom. The general formula for a carboxylic acid is R-COOH, where R represents an alkyl or aryl group, or simply a hydrogen atom in the case of formic acid.

Carboxylic acids are classified as weak acids due to the polar nature of the O-H bond in the carboxyl group. This polarity allows them to donate a proton (H+) in aqueous solutions, forming a carboxylate anion (R-COO-) and hydronium ions (H3O+). The acidity of carboxylic acids varies depending on the nature of the R group. Electron-withdrawing groups attached to the R group generally increase acidity, while electron-donating groups decrease it.

The properties of carboxylic acids are influenced by the presence of the carboxyl group. They are typically polar and can form hydrogen bonds with water molecules, leading to solubility in water, especially for shorter-chain carboxylic acids. As the R group gets longer, the hydrophobic character increases, reducing water solubility. Carboxylic acids have higher boiling points than alcohols of similar molecular weight due to stronger intermolecular hydrogen bonding.

Common examples of carboxylic acids include formic acid (HCOOH), acetic acid (CH3COOH), propanoic acid (CH3CH2COOH), and benzoic acid (C6H5COOH). They are found naturally in fruits, vegetables, and are produced through various biological processes. Carboxylic acids are important intermediates in organic synthesis and have wide applications in industries such as food production, pharmaceuticals, polymers, and detergents.