Karboksüüllühendite

Karboksüüllühendid refer to a broad class of organic compounds characterized by the presence of a carboxyl functional group, which is a combination of a carbonyl group (C=O) and a hydroxyl group (OH) attached to the same carbon atom. This functional group has the general formula -COOH.

The carboxyl group is acidic due to the electronegativity of the oxygen atoms, which polarize the O-H bond and allow for the dissociation of a proton (H+). This property makes carboxylic acids capable of donating a proton and reacting with bases to form salts. Carboxylic acids are a fundamental and versatile class of organic compounds, playing crucial roles in biochemistry and industrial chemistry.

Common examples of carboxylic acids include formic acid (the simplest carboxylic acid), acetic acid (found in vinegar), and citric acid (found in citrus fruits). These compounds vary widely in their physical and chemical properties depending on the length and structure of the hydrocarbon chain attached to the carboxyl group. Their reactivity allows them to undergo various transformations, such as esterification, amide formation, and reduction, making them important building blocks for synthesizing a vast array of other organic molecules.