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Which one of these is not a monocarboxylic acid?

Correct answer: B. Oxalic acid

  • A. Formic acid
  • B. Oxalic acid
  • C. Benzoic acid
  • D. Acetic acid

Explanation

Acetic acid (CH3COOH), formic acid (HCOOH), and benzoic acids (C6H5COOH) are all monocarboxylic acids as they contain only one carboxylic acid group whereas oxalic acid, also known as ethanedioic acid (COOH-COOH), has two carboxylic acid groups so it is a dicarboxylic acid.

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

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