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Monocarboxylic acids are organic compounds that contain a single carboxyl functional group, which has the formula COOH. This group consists of a carbonyl group (C=O) bonded to a hydroxyl group (OH). The general formula for a monocarboxylic acid is R-COOH, where R represents a hydrogen atom or an alkyl or aryl group.

Simple monocarboxylic acids include formic acid (HCOOH), acetic acid (CH3COOH), and propanoic acid (CH3CH2COOH). Formic acid is the simplest and is found in ant venom. Acetic acid is the main component of vinegar. As the R group becomes larger, the solubility of the carboxylic acid in water decreases.

Monocarboxylic acids exhibit acidic properties due to the ability of the hydroxyl group to donate a proton (H+). They react with bases to form salts and water. For example, acetic acid reacts with sodium hydroxide to form sodium acetate and water.

These compounds are widely distributed in nature and have numerous applications. They are used as food preservatives, solvents, and in the production of plastics, pharmaceuticals, and fragrances. Longer-chain fatty acids, which are monocarboxylic acids with long alkyl chains, are essential components of fats and oils and play vital roles in biological systems.