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  • Carboxylic Acids: Definition, Structure, and Examples
    A substituted hydrocarbon with one or more carboxyl groups is called a carboxylic acid.

    Here's a breakdown:

    * Hydrocarbon: A molecule composed of only hydrogen and carbon atoms.

    * Substituted: Meaning that one or more hydrogen atoms have been replaced by other atoms or groups.

    * Carboxyl group: A functional group consisting of a carbon atom double-bonded to an oxygen atom and single-bonded to a hydroxyl group (-COOH).

    Examples of carboxylic acids:

    * Acetic acid (CH3COOH): The acid found in vinegar.

    * Formic acid (HCOOH): Found in ant stings.

    * Citric acid (C6H8O7): Found in citrus fruits.

    * Stearic acid (CH3(CH2)16COOH): A saturated fatty acid.

    Carboxylic acids are an important class of organic compounds with many applications in various fields.

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