This diagram shows formic acid, the simplest organic acid. The name formic comes from the Latin word(Formica) for ant. This acid is an important alarm and defensive compound for many ants.
Organic acids
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are very important compounds in living things. They are important components of structural molecules such as phospholipids and are an important source of energy.
Organic acids have a carboxyl group and long a chain of carbons attached to it.
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This diagram shows formic acid, the simplest organic acid. The name formic comes from the Latin word(Formica) for ant. This acid is an important alarm and defensive compound for many ants. |
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Acetic acid, the acid in vinegar, has one more carbon than formic acid. |
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Previous Page, Next Page,Top of page Fatty acids are organic acids which have a long chain of carbon and hydrogens attached to the carboxyl group. Oleic Acid is a common saturated fatty acid. Actually the bend in the carbon chain suggests that oleic acid is not completely saturated. |
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I can't resist this cool looking fatty acid from Chrysanthamums. Notice the interesting triangular ring in the carbon chain. |
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pgd. revised 7/15//99