Carboxylic acids, esters and acyl derivatives

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Identify, name and describe the structures and physical properties of carboxylic acids, esters and acyl derivatives, relating acidity and boiling temperature to bonding and intermolecular forces.
Describe and apply the preparation and reactions of carboxylic acids, including oxidation of primary alcohols and aldehydes, reaction with metals, bases, carbonates and alcohols, and reduction where required by the specification.

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Explain and apply esterification and hydrolysis of esters under acidic and alkaline conditions, including the use of reflux, catalysts and the formation of carboxylic acids, alcohols or carboxylate salts.

Describe the structure and high reactivity of acyl chlorides and acid anhydrides, and write equations for their reactions with water, alcohols, phenols, ammonia and amines.

Explain and apply nucleophilic addition-elimination mechanisms for acylation reactions of acyl derivatives, using correct intermediates and elimination steps.

Select suitable carboxylic acid, ester and acyl derivative reactions for synthesis, purification and identification, including use in forming fragrances, solvents and acylated organic products.

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