Asked in ETEA MDCAT 2009 2009Moderate

Which of the following carboxylic acid is the strongest?

Correct answer: A. Dichloroacetic acid

  • A. Dichloroacetic acid
  • B. Chloroacetic acid
  • C. Formic acid
  • D. Acetic acid

Explanation

Greater -I effect, due to the presence of two chloro groups increase the acid strength of dichloroacetic acid

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About Reactivity of Carboxylic Acids

Carboxylic acids show acidic behaviour because their carboxylate ions are resonance-stabilised, and electron-withdrawing groups can change their strength. Reactions include neutralisation, esterification, formation of acid chlorides and amides, reduction, decarboxylation and substitution at the acyl carbon, which differs from the reactions of phenols.

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550 free Carboxylic Acids MCQs from Chemistry, each with the correct answer and an explanation. Unlimited attempts, no account needed.

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