Which of the following carboxylic acids will be the most acidic?

Correct answer: B. CH3CH2CCl2COOH

  • A. CH3CHClCH2COOH
  • B. CH3CH2CCl2COOH
  • C. CH3CH2CHClCOOH
  • D. CH3CH2CH2COOH

Explanation

The acidity of carboxylic acids increases with the presence of electron-withdrawing groups (like-CI) near the -COOH group. CH3CH2CCI2COOH has two chlorine atoms on the B-carbon, which strongly stabilize the carboxylate ion through the inductive effect. Fewer or more distant chlorines (as in the other options) make the acid less acidic.

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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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