Chemistry 5070 · O Level · Carboxylic acids

Carboxylic acids — practice question

Ethanoic acid, CH$_3$COOH, belongs to the homologous series of carboxylic acids.
(a)[1]

Give the general formula for the homologous series of carboxylic acids.

(b)[1]

A feature of a homologous series is that all its compounds have similar chemical properties. Explain why the compounds share similar chemical properties.

(c(i))[1]

The reaction between calcium and dilute ethanoic acid is shown. $\text{Ca} + 2\text{CH}_3\text{COOH} \rightarrow \text{H}_2 + \text{Ca(CH}_3\text{COO)}_2$ State the name of the compound Ca(CH$_3$COO)$_2$.

(c(ii))[3]

A 1.35 g sample of calcium is placed into excess dilute ethanoic acid. Calculate the volume of hydrogen produced at room temperature and pressure. Give your answer to two significant figures.

(d)[3]

Dilute ethanoic acid is one constituent of vinegar. Describe how vinegar is manufactured. Include the reactants and conditions.

(e(i))[1]

Butanoic acid and propanoic acid are two other carboxylic acids. State the molecular formula of butanoic acid.

(e(ii))[1]

Draw the displayed formula for propanoic acid.

(e(iii))[1]

Solid sodium carbonate is added to dilute propanoic acid. Predict one observation for this reaction.

(e(iv))[1]

Aqueous sodium hydroxide is added to dilute butanoic acid. State the names of the products formed in this reaction.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 13-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: CₙH₂ₙ₊₁CO₂H or CₙH₂ₙ₊₁COOH

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