This subtopic builds upon the concepts introduced in Stage 1 subtopics 4.2 and 5.2.

Carboxylic acids can be produced by the oxidation of aldehydes or primary alcohols.

• Identify, name systematically, and draw structural formulae of carboxylic acids containing:
  • up to eight carbon atoms in the main chain, with side chains limited to a maximum of two carbon atoms
  • one or two carboxyl groups.

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Video: Carboxylic acids

Reference sheet: Functional groups

Practice programs: Naming | Drawing (choose Carboxylic acid)

Tool: Draw from name

Carboxylic acids are weak acids and, to a small extent, ionise in water.

• Write equations for the reactions of carboxylic acids with bases, including hydroxides, carbonates, and hydrogencarbonates, to form carboxylate salts, and describe changes that accompany these reactions.
• Explain why sodium and potassium carboxylate salts are more soluble in water than their parent carboxylic acids.

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Videos: Solubility of carboxylic acids in water | Flippin' Science

Prac: Ibuprofen vs paracetamol.pdf

Practice: Organic Products (choose Neutralisation of carboxylic acid)