General Instructions:

In this activity, you will demonstrate your understanding of the synthesis of carboxylic acids, their derivatives, and their various reactions.

Step 1: Select and Reflect

Select one of the topics below and demonstrate your understanding of them in theoretical and practical settings:

• Carboxylic Acids

• Synthesis of Carboxylic Acids

• Carboxylic Acid Derivatives 

• Alpha Substitution Reactions

• Carbonyl Condensation Reactions

Step 2: Respond

Answer any one of the following questions:

1. Name the following carboxylic acids and derivatives.

2. Using balanced chemical equations, show and describe the steps involved in the acid-catalyzed synthesis of an ester from a carboxylic acid and an alcohol.

3. Predict the major organic product(s) for each of the following reactions:

Step 3: Share 

To share your work, click on the “Add a new discussion topic” button under this post and paste your work into the “Message” box. Make sure to reference others’ intellectual property when necessary. You do not need to share your drawings that were done in the chemistry tool, but you can discuss them if needed. All references should follow 7th Edition APA formatting. For further instructions, see the resource on the Himmelfarb Health Sciences Library: APA citation resource (N.B.: references are excluded from word counts).

Step 4: Interact 

To complete the activity, evaluate and categorize the work from one of your peers based on items A - E of the rubric below. Provide a rationale for the grade you have provided and comments or suggestions for improvement. To post a reply, click “Reply” on a particular discussion, write your feedback, and click “Post to forum.” You can use the list below as an example:

Item A is….. because ….. My suggestions for improvement are …..

Item B is ….. because ….. My suggestions for improvement are…..

Item C is ….. because ….. My suggestions for improvement are…..

Item D is ….. because …… My suggestions for improvement are ……

Item E is ….. because ….. My suggestions for improvement are …..

OPTIONAL Step 5: Interact (10 minutes)

If you would like to, you can reply to your peers' posts in a respectful and professional manner. Ensure that your post engages your peers' ideas by including a reflection on their comments, sharing ideas of other potential difficulties and parties involved, or asking thought-provoking questions. If a peer comments on your posting, please reply. To post a reply, click “Reply” on a particular discussion, write your feedback and then click on “Post to forum.”