Carboxyl Group

A carboxyl group is a specific chemical structure found in organic molecules, consisting of a carbon atom double-bonded to an oxygen atom and also bonded to a hydroxyl group (–OH). This structure is often represented as –COOH. Carboxyl groups are common in acids, such as acetic acid in vinegar or citric acid in citrus fruits. They play a crucial role in chemistry and biology, influencing how substances behave in reactions and how they interact in living organisms. Their presence makes compounds acidic, which is important for many biological processes.