Carboxylic Acid

Carboxylic acids are a type of organic compound characterized by the presence of a carboxyl group (–COOH). This group consists of a carbon atom double-bonded to an oxygen atom and also bonded to a hydroxyl group (–OH). They are common in nature and have a sour taste; for example, vinegar contains acetic acid, a simple carboxylic acid. Carboxylic acids are important in many biological processes and industrial applications, including the production of pharmaceuticals, food preservatives, and plastics. They exhibit acidic properties because they can release hydrogen ions (H⁺) in solution.