Question

question 12 (1 point)
a carboxyl group is always _.
a) at the beginning of a chain
b) anywhere on the chain
c) on either side of a chain
d) in the middle of a chain
e) at the end of a chain

Explanation:

A carboxyl group (\(-COOH\)) has a specific structure. In organic chemistry, when naming and considering the position of functional groups, the carboxyl group is given the highest priority in numbering the carbon chain. This means it is always placed at the end of the chain (designated as carbon - 1 in numbering) to get the lowest possible locant. For example, in acetic acid (\(CH_3COOH\)), the carboxyl group is at the end.

Answer:

E. at the end of a chain