Find free online Chemistry Topics covering a broad range of concepts from research institutes around the world.
Methods of Preparation of Carboxylic Acids
Some important methods for the preparation of carboxylic acids are as follows:
1. From Primary Alcohols and Aldehydes
Primary alcohols and aldehydes can easily be oxidised to the corresponding carboxylic acids with oxidising agents such as potassium permanganate (in acidic or alkaline medium), potassium dichromate (in acidic medium)
Example
2. Hydrolysis of Nitriles
Nitriles yield carboxylic acids when subjected to hydrolysis with an acid or alkali.
Example
3. Acidic Hydrolysis of Esters
Esters on hydrolysis with dilute mineral acids yield corresponding carboxylic acid
Example
4. From Grignard Reagent
Grignard reagent reacts with carbon dioxide (dry ice) to form salts of carboxylic acid which in turn give corresponding carboxylic acid aftr acidifiation with mineral acid.
Example
Formic acid cannot be prepared by Grignard reagent since the acid contains only one carbon atom.
5. Hydrolysis of Acylhalides and Anhydrides
(a) Acid chlorides when hydrolysed with water give Carboxylic acids.
Example
(b) Acid anhydride when hydrolysed with water give corresponding carboxylic acids.
6. Oxidation of Alkyl Benzenes
Aromatic carboxylic acids can be prepared by vigorous oxidation of alkyl benzene with chromic acid or acidic or alkaline potassium permanganate. The entire side chain is oxidised to – COOH group irrespective of the length of the side chain.
Example
