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Multiple Choice
Which statement regarding the acidity of carboxylic acids is true?
A
Carboxylic acids are stronger acids than phenols.
B
Carboxylic acids are weaker acids than alcohols.
C
Carboxylic acids have a higher pKa than amines.
D
Carboxylic acids do not dissociate in water.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of acidity: Acidity in organic chemistry is often measured by the pKa value, where a lower pKa indicates a stronger acid.
Compare carboxylic acids and phenols: Carboxylic acids generally have lower pKa values than phenols, indicating that they are stronger acids. This is due to the resonance stabilization of the carboxylate ion formed after deprotonation.
Compare carboxylic acids and alcohols: Carboxylic acids are stronger acids than alcohols. Alcohols have higher pKa values, meaning they are weaker acids compared to carboxylic acids.
Compare carboxylic acids and amines: Carboxylic acids have lower pKa values than amines, making them stronger acids. Amines are basic and have much higher pKa values.
Consider dissociation in water: Carboxylic acids do dissociate in water to form carboxylate ions and hydronium ions, which is a characteristic of their acidic nature.