ortoácido

Ortoácido, also known as ortho-acid, is a term used in chemistry to describe acids that contain a hydroxyl group (-OH) directly attached to a carbon atom that is also bonded to at least one other carbon atom. This structural feature distinguishes ortho-acids from para-acids, where the hydroxyl group is attached to a carbon atom that is not directly bonded to another carbon atom. Ortho-acids are commonly found in organic chemistry and are often characterized by their ability to form intramolecular hydrogen bonds, which can significantly influence their chemical properties and reactivity. Examples of ortho-acids include salicylic acid and 2,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid. The presence of the hydroxyl group in the ortho position can lead to unique chemical behaviors, such as enhanced acidity and the formation of stable tautomers. Ortho-acids play a crucial role in various biological and industrial processes, including drug synthesis and the production of polymers. Their study is essential for understanding the structure-activity relationships in organic compounds and for developing new materials with specific properties.