Moderate

The weakest carboxylic acid:

Correct answer: B. CH3CH2COOH

  • A. HCOOH
  • B. CH3CH2COOH
  • C. CH3COOH
  • D. ClCH2COOH

Explanation

The weakest carboxylic acid is indeed option (B) CH3CH2COOH, also known as propanoic acid. This is because it has an alkyl group (ethyl group) attached to the carboxyl group, which has a slight electron-donating effect (+I effect). This slightly destabilizes the carboxylic acid, making it weaker compared to the other options.

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About Carboxylic Acids

Carboxylic acids are named and studied through the combined effects of the carbonyl and hydroxyl groups, their preparation, acidity and hydrogen bonding. Reactions include neutralisation, esterification, reduction and conversion into acid chlorides, anhydrides, esters and amides, with emphasis on how these derivatives interconvert.

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