In which class of compounds is the carbon at the functional group most highly oxidized?
A) alcohols
B) aldehydes
C) carboxylic acids
D) ketones

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Carboxylic acids have the highest oxidation state of the carbon at the functional group. This is because the carbon in a carboxylic acid is bonded to two oxygen atoms, one of which is double bonded, while the other is singly bonded and carries a negative charge. This arrangement gives the carbon a +3 oxidation state, which is the highest possible for a carbon atom in an organic compound. In comparison, alcohols only have a +1 oxidation state, aldehydes have a +1 or +2 oxidation state, and ketones have a +2 oxidation state.

In Which Class of Compounds Is the Carbon at the Functional