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Ch.21 - Organic Chemistry
Chapter 21, Problem 79b

Name each carboxylic acid or ester.

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Identify the functional group present in the compound. Carboxylic acids have the functional group \(-COOH\), while esters have the functional group \(-COOR\).
For carboxylic acids, name the longest carbon chain containing the carboxyl group. Replace the '-e' ending of the corresponding alkane with '-oic acid'.
For esters, identify the alkyl group attached to the oxygen atom and name it first. This is followed by the name of the acid part, where the '-oic acid' ending is replaced with '-oate'.
Consider any substituents on the carbon chain and number the chain starting from the carboxyl carbon for acids or the carbonyl carbon for esters. Include the position and name of substituents in the name.
Combine the names from the previous steps to form the complete name of the carboxylic acid or ester.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Carboxylic Acids

Carboxylic acids are organic compounds characterized by the presence of one or more carboxyl groups (-COOH). They are known for their acidic properties, which arise from the ability of the carboxyl group to donate a proton (H+) in solution. Common examples include acetic acid (found in vinegar) and benzoic acid. The naming convention typically involves identifying the longest carbon chain containing the carboxyl group and adding the suffix '-oic acid.'
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Esters

Esters are organic compounds formed from the reaction of an alcohol and a carboxylic acid, resulting in the replacement of the hydrogen in the carboxyl group with an alkyl group. They are often characterized by their pleasant fragrances and are commonly used in flavorings and fragrances. The naming of esters involves identifying the alkyl group from the alcohol and the acid part, leading to a name that ends with '-ate,' such as ethyl acetate.
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Nomenclature Rules

Nomenclature rules in organic chemistry provide a systematic way to name compounds based on their structure and functional groups. For carboxylic acids, the longest carbon chain containing the carboxyl group is identified, and the appropriate suffix is applied. For esters, the names are derived from the alcohol and acid components, with specific endings. Understanding these rules is essential for accurately naming and identifying organic compounds.
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