Lecture Organic chemistry: Chapter 12 – Trường ĐH Bách khoa TP. HCM

Carboxylic acids represent a pivotal class of organic compounds, characterized by the carboxyl functional group (-COOH). Their pervasive presence in biological systems, industrial processes, and everyday materials underscores their immense significance in organic chemistry. This academic manuscript provides a foundational overview, delving into the structural characteristics, systematic and common nomenclature, and diverse synthetic methodologies for carboxylic acids. Understanding these fundamental aspects is crucial for students and researchers alike, laying the groundwork for more advanced studies in organic synthesis and biochemistry.

Undergraduate students of organic chemistry, chemical engineering, and related scientific disciplines seeking a foundational understanding of carboxylic acids, their nomenclature, and synthesis.

This document offers a comprehensive exploration of carboxylic acids, a fundamental class of organic compounds. It begins by illustrating the characteristic structural features of carboxylic acids, including the carbonyl group and the sp2 hybridization of the carboxyl carbon, providing a visual basis for understanding their reactivity. A significant portion is dedicated to the detailed systematic (IUPAC) and common nomenclature, presenting numerous examples ranging from simple straight-chain acids like methanoic acid and ethanoic acid to more complex substituted and aromatic carboxylic acids. The manuscript further enriches the understanding by showcasing examples of naturally occurring carboxylic acids and their derivatives, such as lactic acid, succinic acid, and citric acid, emphasizing their biological and industrial relevance. The latter part of the document meticulously outlines various key preparatory methods for synthesizing carboxylic acids. These include reactions utilizing Grignard reagents with carbon dioxide, hydrolysis of nitriles, and the oxidation of primary alcohols and aldehydes. Particular attention is given to the conditions and outcomes of these synthesis routes, highlighting the step-wise oxidation of alcohols through aldehyde intermediates and noting the relative ease of aldehyde oxidation. This detailed overview equips learners with essential knowledge for identifying, naming, and synthesizing carboxylic acids, crucial skills for organic chemistry.