Carboxylic acid facts for kids

This picture shows the general structure of a carboxylic acid.

A carboxylic acid is a type of molecule that has a special group of atoms called a COOH group. This group is made up of a carbon atom connected to an oxygen atom with a double bond (this is called a carbonyl group). The same carbon atom is also connected to another oxygen atom, which is then connected to a hydrogen atom (this is called a hydroxyl group).

Because it's easy for these molecules to lose their hydrogen atom (which is a proton) when they are near even a weak base, they are called acids. A common example of a carboxylic acid is Acetic acid, which you might know as vinegar.

Carboxylic acids are found in many places, especially in food. Lots of fat molecules are actually carboxylic acids. For example, the fats in chocolate and coconuts contain these acids. They are also very important ingredients in soaps and detergents, helping them clean things.

Smaller carboxylic acids can easily dissolve in water. But the bigger ones, with more carbon atoms, usually only dissolve in special liquids called organic solvents.

Common Carboxylic Acids

This section lists some of the most common carboxylic acids. You might recognize some of their names or where they are found!

Images for kids

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  This image shows a carboxylate anion.

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  This is a 3D picture of a carboxylic acid.

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See also

In Spanish: Ácido carboxílico para niños