Write the balanced chemical equation for the reaction of each of the following carboxylic acids with NaOH:
c. benzoic acid

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the chemical formula for benzoic acid, which is \( \text{C}_6\text{H}_5\text{COOH} \).
2. Write the chemical formula for sodium hydroxide, which is \( \text{NaOH} \).
3. Recognize that the reaction between a carboxylic acid and a base like NaOH is a neutralization reaction, producing a salt and water.
4. In this reaction, benzoic acid (\( \text{C}_6\text{H}_5\text{COOH} \)) reacts with NaOH to form sodium benzoate (\( \text{C}_6\text{H}_5\text{COONa} \)) and water (\( \text{H}_2\text{O} \)).
5. Write the balanced chemical equation: \( \text{C}_6\text{H}_5\text{COOH} + \text{NaOH} \rightarrow \text{C}_6\text{H}_5\text{COONa} + \text{H}_2\text{O} \).

Key Concepts

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 due to the ability of the carboxyl group to donate a proton (H+) in solution. Benzoic acid, for example, is a simple carboxylic acid with a benzene ring attached to the carboxyl group, making it an important compound in organic chemistry.

Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH)

Sodium hydroxide, commonly known as lye or caustic soda, is a strong base used in various chemical reactions. In the context of carboxylic acids, NaOH reacts with these acids to form a salt and water, a process known as neutralization. This reaction is significant in both laboratory and industrial settings for producing carboxylate salts.

Balanced Chemical Equation

A balanced chemical equation represents a chemical reaction with equal numbers of each type of atom on both sides of the equation. Balancing is essential to obey the law of conservation of mass, which states that matter cannot be created or destroyed in a chemical reaction. For the reaction of benzoic acid with NaOH, the balanced equation illustrates the stoichiometry of the reactants and products involved.