Question

which of the following is an acid? (circle the acid(s)) a. h h h - c - c - oh h h b. h o h - c - c - h h c. h o h - c - c - oh h

Explanation:

Step1: Analyze structure a

It is an alcohol (ethanol), with the -OH group bonded to a carbon. Alcohols are not acids in the context of organic acid - base chemistry.

Step2: Analyze structure b

It is an aldehyde (acetaldehyde). Aldehydes do not have the acidic -COOH (carboxyl) group.

Step3: Analyze structure c

It has the -COOH (carboxyl) group. In organic chemistry, compounds with the -COOH group are carboxylic acids.

Answer:

c.