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Carboxylic Acids

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Explore carboxylic acid properties, structures, uses, comparisons, grades, suppliers, and buying considerations.

What Are Carboxylic Acids?

R—COOH

Carboxylic acids contain a carboxyl group: a carbonyl (C=O) and a hydroxyl (O–H) attached to the same carbon. R represents the rest of the molecule; in formic acid, it is hydrogen.

A molecule can have one, two or more carboxyl groups. Its wider structure helps determine which properties and product specifications matter.

Sources: IUPAC Gold Book · Carboxylic acids (opens new tab)

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Choosing a Carboxylic Acid

Start with the chemistry

Check structure, carboxyl-group count, pKa conditions, solubility and reactivity. Confirm stereochemistry, hydrate state and whether the procedure calls for the free acid, a salt or a solution.

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