Karboksüüllühend

Karboksüüllühend is the Estonian term for a carboxylic acid. Carboxylic acids are organic compounds that contain a carboxyl functional group, which consists of a carbonyl group (C=O) bonded to a hydroxyl group (O-H). The general formula for a carboxylic acid is R-COOH, where R represents an alkyl or aryl group, or simply a hydrogen atom.

These compounds are characterized by their acidic properties, meaning they can donate a proton (H+) from the hydroxyl group. The strength of the acid depends on the R group. Carboxylic acids are found naturally in many foods, such as citrus fruits (citric acid) and vinegar (acetic acid). They are also important in biological processes, with fatty acids being a key component of cell membranes and energy storage.

Carboxylic acids participate in a variety of chemical reactions. They can react with bases to form salts and water. Esterification is a common reaction where carboxylic acids react with alcohols to form esters and water. They can also be reduced to alcohols or undergo decarboxylation, where a carboxyl group is removed as carbon dioxide. Industrially, carboxylic acids are used in the production of plastics, pharmaceuticals, solvents, and food additives.