Question detail
What is the first member of the carboxylic acid homologous series?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
Reactions of alkenes and alcohols (chemistry only)
Question
- A. Ethanoic acid
- B. Butanoic acid
- C. Methanoic acid
- D. Propanoic acid
Answer
The correct option is Methanoic acid.
Explanation
The correct option is Methanoic acid. Methanoic acid is correct because it directly supports the approved learning objective to describe carboxylic acids as compounds that contain the functional group –COOH. This belongs to Carboxylic acids within Reactions of alkenes and alcohols (chemistry only), so the answer must use the correct organic chemistry context. The other options are incorrect when they confuse the organic family, formula type, reaction condition, product, or property being tested. Keep molecular formula, structural formula, displayed formula, and general formula distinct. Do not confuse alkanes with alkenes, saturated with unsaturated, cracking with combustion, polymers with monomers, or hydrocarbons with oxygen-containing alcohols and carboxylic acids. When formulae are used, preserve the stored notation exactly and explain the GCSE chemistry idea in words rather than using unsupported displayed-formula diagrams.
Common mistake
Confusing Functional Groups
Students often confuse carboxylic acids with alcohols, thinking both contain the same functional group.
Remember that carboxylic acids contain the –COOH functional group, while alcohols contain the –OH functional group. Focus on the distinct structures and properties of each.
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