So in my chem class we're learning about acids and bases where acids have a proton that they lose, like HCl dissociates to H+ and Cl- in water. And bases are pretty much elements ionically bonded to a hydroxide ion (OH-) that, when dissociated, the OH- receives a proton.
Now in my cellular biology class we're learning about the Carboxyl functional group.
C=O
|
OH
Where the OH actually loses a proton (H+) and acts as an acid. Why is the hydroxide ion acting as an acid and not a base in this case?
Now in my cellular biology class we're learning about the Carboxyl functional group.
C=O
|
OH
Where the OH actually loses a proton (H+) and acts as an acid. Why is the hydroxide ion acting as an acid and not a base in this case?
-
There is no hydroxide ion.
The -OH does not leave the R-COOH. Instead, only the H+ leaves, leaving behind R-COO(-).
The -OH does not leave the R-COOH. Instead, only the H+ leaves, leaving behind R-COO(-).
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Because it isn't a hydroxide ion. It is part of a molecule. The carbon next to the OH has a partial positive charge. It pulls a little electron density away from the Oxygen to stabilize a negative ion so that it can form. You'll get it with practice on problems.
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poiny