Chapter 21, Problem 21.9TC

Interpretation Introduction

(a)

Interpretation:

The name and structural formula of the functional group that defines carboxylic acid is to be determined.

Concept introduction:

A functional group is a group of atoms that are responsible for characteristic reactions associated with a compound. The oxidation of aldehyde and ketone result in the formation of carboxylic acid. The general formula of carboxylic acid is $\text{R}-\text{COOH}$, $\text{R}$ is an alkyl group.

Interpretation Introduction

(b)

Interpretation:

The reactants and the products in an esterification reaction in words are to be determined.

Concept introduction:

The esterification reaction is the reaction between the alcohol and carboxylic acid to form an ester. The water molecule is eliminated in the reaction and ester linkage is formed between the carboxylic acid and alcohol. In the ester, the carboxyl carbon can be bonded to hydrogen or alkyl group but the oxygen of the carboxyl group must be bonded to an alkyl group.

Interpretation Introduction

(c)

Interpretation:

The possible carboxylic acid or ester isomers of ${\text{C}}_{\text{4}}{\text{H}}_{\text{8}}{\text{O}}_{\text{2}}$ is to be drawn and whether they are an ester or carboxylic acids to be identified.

Concept introduction:

Structural isomers are the compounds which have the same molecular formula but different structure. In structural isomers, the arrangement of atoms is different.

The oxidation of aldehyde and ketone result in the formation of carboxylic acid. The general formula of carboxylic acid is $\text{R}-\text{COOH}$, $\text{R}$ is an alkyl group. The carboxylic acid consists of the carboxyl group in its structure that is bonded to the alkyl group.

Ester also consists of a carboxyl group in its structure. In ester, the carboxyl carbon can be bonded to hydrogen or alkyl group but the oxygen of the carboxyl group must be bonded to an alkyl group. The general formula of the esters is $\text{R}-{\text{COOR}}^{\text{'}}$, $\text{R}$ and ${\text{R}}^{\text{'}}$ represents an alkyl group.