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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is a characteristic feature of a carboxylic acid functional group?
A
Contains a hydroxyl group attached to a carbonyl carbon
B
Contains a sulfur atom bonded to a hydrogen atom
C
Contains a carbon-carbon double bond
D
Contains a nitrogen atom bonded to three hydrogen atoms
Verified step by step guidance
1
Identify the structure of a carboxylic acid functional group. A carboxylic acid is characterized by the presence of a carbonyl group (C=O) and a hydroxyl group (OH) attached to the same carbon atom.
Understand the components of a carboxylic acid. The carbonyl group consists of a carbon atom double-bonded to an oxygen atom, while the hydroxyl group consists of an oxygen atom bonded to a hydrogen atom.
Recognize that the carboxylic acid functional group does not contain sulfur, nitrogen, or carbon-carbon double bonds as part of its defining structure.
Compare the given options with the structure of a carboxylic acid. The correct characteristic feature is the presence of a hydroxyl group attached to a carbonyl carbon.
Conclude that the defining feature of a carboxylic acid is the combination of the carbonyl and hydroxyl groups, forming the carboxyl group (COOH).