Question

Describe a test for carboxylic acids.

Answer 1

Prepare a saturated solution of sodium bicarbonate by dissolving sodium bicarbonate in 1ml of water. Add the given organic compound on the saturated solution of sodium bicarbonate solution. Shake the solution well. If there is an evolution of brisk effervescence then it indicates the presence of carboxylic acid.

Answer 2

Ester Testing can be done for Carboxylic Acids

Explanation:

1.) Sodium Hydrogen Carbonate Test

Carboxylic acids react with sodium hydrogen carbonate to produce carbon dioxide gas which can be seen in the form of a brisk effervescence.

RCOOH + $NaHCO_3$ ----> RCOONa + $CO_2$ (g) + $H_2O$

2.) Ester Testing

Alcohol and carboxylic acid react in the presence of conc. H_2SO4, giving sweet-smelling Ester.

RCOOH + R'OH -----> RCOOR' + $H_2O$

carboxylic acid               Ester