Which acid is organic?

Study for the IMAT Chemistry Exam. Access flashcards and multiple choice questions; hints and explanations included for each question. Prepare effectively for your exam.

Multiple Choice

Which acid is organic?

Explanation:
Organic acids are those that contain carbon in their molecular structure, usually with a carboxyl group. Acetic acid has the formula CH3COOH, which includes a carbon-containing hydrocarbon fragment attached to a carboxyl group, so it is organic. The other acids—sulfuric, nitric, and phosphoric—are mineral (inorganic) acids made from nonmetals like sulfur, nitrogen, and phosphorus and do not have carbon-hydrogen bonds in their structures. Hence, acetic acid is the organic one.

Organic acids are those that contain carbon in their molecular structure, usually with a carboxyl group. Acetic acid has the formula CH3COOH, which includes a carbon-containing hydrocarbon fragment attached to a carboxyl group, so it is organic. The other acids—sulfuric, nitric, and phosphoric—are mineral (inorganic) acids made from nonmetals like sulfur, nitrogen, and phosphorus and do not have carbon-hydrogen bonds in their structures. Hence, acetic acid is the organic one.

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