Question

I was just wondering if you could tell me what evidence there is that supports the statement: carboxylic acids are soluble in an aqueous solution. I have an answer all ready, and I have searched the internet, but I was just interested in a little one-on-one detail from a person. Thank you, much appreciated!

Answer 1

Remember that like dissolves like. Carboxylic acids are polar, water is polar, and many carboxylic acids are soluble in water. The larger the organic portion of the molecule (the chain attached to the COOH group), the more unlike water it becomes and the less soluble it is. Thus, large carboxylic acids are not very soluble; in fact, some are insoluble. [I have answered although I never was a science teacher; just chemistry.]

Answer 2

Ah thank you!! I was missing the part about the size!! Oh and I just meant I wanted someone who knew what they were talking about to answer my question, sometimes I get really weird answers is all. Thanks!