Functional Groups in Acetic Acid (CH₃COOH)

What functional groups are in Acetic Acid (CH₃COOH)?

Acetic Acid (CH₃COOH) contains 1 functional group: Carboxylic Acid (-COOH). The acid in vinegar. Contains a carboxylic acid group (-COOH).

FormulaCH₃COOH
NameAcetic Acid
Number of Functional Groups1
Functional Groups PresentCarboxylic Acid (-COOH)
DescriptionThe acid in vinegar. Contains a carboxylic acid group (-COOH).

Overview

Acetic acid (CH₃COOH) is the simplest carboxylic acid you'll commonly encounter. It gives vinegar its sour taste.

Carboxylic Acid (-COOH)

The carboxylic acid group (-COOH) has a carbon double-bonded to one oxygen (C=O) and single-bonded to a hydroxyl (-OH). This combination is acidic because the negative charge can be stabilized by resonance.

Functional Group 2

Acetic acid has only one functional group. The entire -COOH unit acts together - don't confuse it with a separate ketone + hydroxyl.

Complete Analysis

The carboxylic acid group (-COOH) is highlighted. Remember: -COOH is one functional group, not two separate ones.

Interactive 3D functional group identification with guided walkthroughs and practice quizzes on 12 molecules.

Identify Functional Groups in Acetic Acid in 3D

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